Trae Crowder first gained international attention (or notoriety depending on your politics) in 2016 for his hugely viral series of “Liberal Redneck” comedic “porch rant” videos. Since then, Trae has written a best-selling book, The Liberal Redneck Manifesto: Draggin Dixie Outta The Dark, toured the country thrice over playing sold out theatre shows under the WellRED Comedy Tour banner, appeared on Real Time with Bill Maher (HBO), Nightline (ABC), The View, Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell (MSNBC), NPR, WTF with Marc Maron, MTV, CNN, Huffington Post and in the Veronica Mars reboot, as “Chattanooga Charlie”, among many others. Initially from rural Celina, TN, Trae now lives in Los Angeles, CA and has developed and sold five scripted pilots for Warner Bros TV, ABC, and FOX and continues to work as a writer. Trae stars in and produces regular sketches for Comedy Central, Funny or Die, ATTN, Facebook Watch, New York Daily News which have garnered tens of millions of views online. 

With more than 20 years as a stand-up comedian, Tom Papa is one of the top comedic voices in the country, finding success as an actor, host, and author, in film, TV, radio and podcasts as well as on the live stage.

The comedian has had 5 highly rated stand-up specials over the years, and he has recently released his 6th stand-up special, Tom Papa: Home Free as a Netflix Original on October 29, 2024. Papa holds nothing back in his third Netflix special as his kids are finally out of the house and it’s just him, his wife, and a bunch of animals ready to return to their glory days. Tom has seen a lot over the years from close calls with a pachinko ball to late night 7-Eleven runs and he’s sharing all his thoughts as he parties on into the next stage of life. His other critically acclaimed specials include What A Day!, Tom Papa: You’re Doing Great!, Human Mule, Freaked Out, and Tom Papa Live in New York City, two of which were directed by Rob Zombie.

Garrison Keillor will be bringing his one-man show to Spartanburg, SC for an evening of storytelling, poetry, and sing-alongs.

A Lecture Demonstration Series for the Curious, the New, and the Devotee

Sun, Feb 8 • 3 pm | 60 Minutes

In the late 1950s and ’60s, musicians like John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Charles Mingus, Wayne Shorter, Ornette Coleman, and others claimed their place as artists. There wasn’t any real doubt before, but jazz now sat at the heights of contemporary art, fully claiming the aesthetic and compositional achievements originally won by artists like Mary Lou Williams and Ellington. Still, it never stopped being a soulful expression of individuality, inspiration, and a challenge to embrace our highest intent.

Jazz Is for Everyone is a series of five one-hour sessions exploring jazz music. Come to one or join them all—each session stands on its own and welcomes listeners at any level.

What You’ll Experience:

Guided listening
Live music demonstrations
Stories that connect the music to people, places, and intent
A space for questions, curiosity, and shared discovery

Jeremy Walker launched Jazz Is for Everyone in 2004 at his Brilliant Corners Jazz Club, with Wynton Marsalis serving as Artistic Advisor. The program was developed as an Educational Affiliate with Jazz at Lincoln Center. Since then, Walker’s been writing, composing, performing, producing, and speaking about why this music still matters.

The 5th Annual FuseFest: A Weekend Fused Glass Symposium

Experience the Art of Fused Glass
Welcome to FuseFest 2026! Join us for a weekend-long celebration of fused glass art at the beautiful Tryon Arts and Crafts School (TACS) in Tryon, North Carolina. Whether you’re a seasoned studio artist, an art educator looking for professional development, or a curious enthusiast, FuseFest is designed to inspire and connect you with the vibrant world of fused glass.

This immersive symposium offers a unique opportunity to learn from three acclaimed artists, explore new techniques, and connect with a passionate community.

What’s Happening at FuseFest?
Get ready for an action-packed weekend of learning and networking! FuseFest 2026 features a dynamic program model, including:

Hands-On Workshops: Take 3-hour workshops with each of our three visiting artists. Dive deep into new skills and techniques in a supportive studio environment.

Live Demonstrations & Lectures: Engage with the masters as they showcase their craft and share their artistic journeys.

Networking & Community: Mingle with fellow artists and enthusiasts at our Friday evening social, complete with live demonstrations, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction.

Cross-Curricular Activities: Experience the breadth of TACS’s offerings with live art demonstrations.

You’ll also enjoy delicious local cuisine throughout the weekend, with catered lunches from vendors like Katie D’s NY Bagels and Deli, and a special community dinner on Saturday evening. We’re proud to partner with local businesses like the GreenLife Inn, Tryon Coffeehouse Co-Op, and Tryon Bottle to make your stay in Tryon memorable.

Staten Island native Sal Vulcano is best known for creating and starring in truTV’s long-running hit “Impractical Jokers,” and for “The Misery Index” on TBS. In addition to performing as part of The Tenderloins Comedy Troupe to sold-out arenas, Sal founded the No Presh Network in 2020, hosting “Hey Babe!” and “Taste Buds” podcasts. Sal’s debut solo comedy special ‘Terrified’ was released in May 2024 on YouTube.

Wortham Presents Joshua Lozoff: Life is Magic

Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm
Michael Palascak, featured on The Late Show and The Late Late Show, was a Top 5 Finalist on Last Comic Standing. Known for his sharp, personal material and likability, his specials 1984 and The Internet Live reflect his optimistic humor, including his YouTube series The Bright Side.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak

Fri & Sat, Feb 27 & 28 • 8 pm
Michael Palascak, featured on The Late Show and The Late Late Show, was a Top 5 Finalist on Last Comic Standing. Known for his sharp, personal material and likability, his specials 1984 and The Internet Live reflect his optimistic humor, including his YouTube series The Bright Side.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Michael Palascak

Tue, Mar 3 • 7 pm

Join Emmy Award-winner Jane Lynch (Glee, Only Murders in the Building) and the hilariously charming Kate Flannery (The Office) for a raucous night of classic tunes, live comedy, and devilish charm. It’s part cabaret, part stand-up, and all sass—because when these angels get together, heaven can wait.

Spotlight on Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery:

Jane Lynch is a five-time Emmy winner, celebrated for her roles in Glee, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Only Murders in the Building
Lynch is a recurring favorite in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries, including A Mighty Wind and Best in Show
Kate Flannery won hearts as Meredith on the hit NBC series The Office
Flannery also hit the road with Dancing with the Stars, performing live at Radio City Music Hall and across 40 cities
Their holiday album A Swingin’ Little Christmas landed in Billboard’s Top 10 Adult Contemporary chart, bringing jazzy cheer and campy charm to audiences nationwide

Wortham Presents

Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery: The Trouble with Angels

Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm

In 1999, Kevin, inspired by Def Comedy Jam, tried stand-up at an open-mic night. Today, with a smooth, clever style and contagious laugh, he entertains nationwide. A winner of the HBO Comedy Competition and a Last Comic Standing semi-finalist, his Dry Bar special has over 7 million views.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman

Fri & Sat, Apr 3 & 4 • 8 pm

In 1999, Kevin, inspired by Def Comedy Jam, tried stand-up at an open-mic night. Today, with a smooth, clever style and contagious laugh, he entertains nationwide. A winner of the HBO Comedy Competition and a Last Comic Standing semi-finalist, his Dry Bar special has over 7 million views.

The Comedy Zone: Back with a fresh lineup of powerhouse talent, this hit comedy series features comics seen on Netflix, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show, and more. Smart, fast, and fiercely funny—get ready to laugh out loud and leave smiling.

VIP table upgrades available.

Wortham Presents

The Comedy Zone: Kevin Bozeman

Kevin James began his career as a stand-up on the Long Island comedy scene. After being discovered at the 1996 Montreal Comedy Festival, he signed a network development deal to create his own sitcom.

The King of Queens, which premiered in 1998, ran for nine seasons on CBS with James starring and executive producing, and it garnered him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. The show concluded its run in 2007 but continues to air daily in syndication across the country and around the world. James also starred in, and executive produced The Crew, a Netflix sitcom set in the world of NASCAR.

Performing at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center of Asheville at 8:00pm.

Candice Guardino: Italian Bred

Wed, Apr 22 • 6 pm
A bumbling crew, a mysterious yellow bird, and a chase that defies reality—Yellow Bird Chase launches you into a wild world with no words—just laughter, wonder, and theatrical magic for all ages and backgrounds.

“An utter joy from start to finish” —Theater Weekly

“Stunning….masterful….wondrous.” —Broadway World

Spotlight on Yellow Bird Chase:

Fully accessible to deaf, hard of hearing, and non-English-speaking audiences
Created by Liars & Believers, known for inventive physical theater and ensemble storytelling
Features masks, puppetry, and gibberish in a wordless adventure fit for all ages
Cast includes seasoned performers with credits from Off-Broadway to regional favorites
Praised by critics as “unstoppable,” “masterful,” and “an utter joy”

Thur & Fri, Apr 23 & 24 • 8 pm
Sat, Apr 25 • 3 pm & 8 pm

On a quest to answer the age-old question, “What do women want?” Robert Dubac morphs into five hysterical boneheads, each offering sidesplitting advice on bridging the gender gap—all while drinking a beer. The New York Times calls it “Hilarious … a one man tour de force!” It’s the funniest hour you’ll spend with one man.

“Humor rules THE MALE INTELLECT!” —Chicago Tribune

Spotlight on Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?:

This show received ★ ★ ★ ★ from both the Toronto Star and Denver Post
Has been translated into dozens of languages and performed from the Eiffel Tower to the American Heartland
A Wortham favorite, this follows Dubac’s acclaimed shows The Book of Moron and Stand-up Jesus
Dubac was chosen to study with a select group of actors under the personal tutelage of the late great Sanford Meisner
2025/26 member presale demand was so overwhelming, Wortham Center added an extra performance

Wortham Presents

Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?

Thur & Fri, Apr 23 & 24 • 8 pm
Sat, Apr 25 • 3 pm & 8 pm

On a quest to answer the age-old question, “What do women want?” Robert Dubac morphs into five hysterical boneheads, each offering sidesplitting advice on bridging the gender gap—all while drinking a beer. The New York Times calls it “Hilarious … a one man tour de force!” It’s the funniest hour you’ll spend with one man.

“Humor rules THE MALE INTELLECT!” —Chicago Tribune

Spotlight on Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?:

This show received ★ ★ ★ ★ from both the Toronto Star and Denver Post
Has been translated into dozens of languages and performed from the Eiffel Tower to the American Heartland
A Wortham favorite, this follows Dubac’s acclaimed shows The Book of Moron and Stand-up Jesus
Dubac was chosen to study with a select group of actors under the personal tutelage of the late great Sanford Meisner
2025/26 member presale demand was so overwhelming, Wortham Center added an extra performance

Wortham Presents

Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?

Thur & Fri, Apr 23 & 24 • 8 pm
Sat, Apr 25 • 3 pm & 8 pm

On a quest to answer the age-old question, “What do women want?” Robert Dubac morphs into five hysterical boneheads, each offering sidesplitting advice on bridging the gender gap—all while drinking a beer. The New York Times calls it “Hilarious … a one man tour de force!” It’s the funniest hour you’ll spend with one man.

“Humor rules THE MALE INTELLECT!” —Chicago Tribune

Spotlight on Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?:

This show received ★ ★ ★ ★ from both the Toronto Star and Denver Post
Has been translated into dozens of languages and performed from the Eiffel Tower to the American Heartland
A Wortham favorite, this follows Dubac’s acclaimed shows The Book of Moron and Stand-up Jesus
Dubac was chosen to study with a select group of actors under the personal tutelage of the late great Sanford Meisner
2025/26 member presale demand was so overwhelming, Wortham Center added an extra performance

Thur & Fri, Apr 23 & 24 • 8 pm
Sat, Apr 25 • 3 pm & 8 pm

On a quest to answer the age-old question, “What do women want?” Robert Dubac morphs into five hysterical boneheads, each offering sidesplitting advice on bridging the gender gap—all while drinking a beer. The New York Times calls it “Hilarious … a one man tour de force!” It’s the funniest hour you’ll spend with one man.

“Humor rules THE MALE INTELLECT!” —Chicago Tribune

Spotlight on Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?:

This show received ★ ★ ★ ★ from both the Toronto Star and Denver Post
Has been translated into dozens of languages and performed from the Eiffel Tower to the American Heartland
A Wortham favorite, this follows Dubac’s acclaimed shows The Book of Moron and Stand-up Jesus
Dubac was chosen to study with a select group of actors under the personal tutelage of the late great Sanford Meisner
2025/26 member presale demand was so overwhelming, Wortham Center added an extra performance

Wortham Presents

Robert Dubac’s THE MALE INTELLECT: AN OXYMORON?

John Crist is one of today’s fastest-rising stand-up comedians, earning more than one billion video views, more than 7.9 million fans on social media and sold-out shows from coast to coast and continuously charts as one of Pollstar’s Top 10 Global Touring Comedians. John has sold out the majority of his 2025 U.S. ‘Jokes For Humans’ dates and recently launched a Fall extension – which kicked off at Las Vegas’ Encore Theater and will visit cities like Austin, Louisville, Cleveland and more later this year.

Performing at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville at 7pm.

Daniel Tosh is a comedian, host, writer and producer. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Marketing, Daniel moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy. His stand up career accelerated in 2001 after a performance on The Late Show with David Letterman after which Daniel would continue on to appear in other shows including his own COMEDY CENTRAL PRESENTS, a 30 minute special two years later. He was also seen on PREMIUM BLEND and multiple episodes of THE TONIGHT SHOW.