Stephen Lynch to perform at SPEC's fall concert

After the excitement surrounding Stephen Colbert's week-long stay at the Zellerbach Theatre last semester, the Social Planning and Events Committee has decided to tap another Stephen for its annual fall show.

Comedian, musician and Pennsylvania-born Stephen Lynch is scheduled to perform at SPEC's fall concert, officials announced today.

Lynch will perform without an opening act, bringing his blend of comedy, music and controversial lyrics to the stage at Irvine Auditorium on Friday, Oct. 17.

"He's half rocker, half comedian, and one hell of an entertainer," said Concerts co-director and College junior Scott Iles in a press release.

Although some students said last year's pick of Ben Kweller for the fall concert left something to be desired, this year SPEC seems to be stepping into a new, and to some more popular, genre.

"Last year [SPEC] got someone I didn't know," said College sophomore Rico Moorer. "I've heard of [Lynch] and he's really funny . I think this guy has gotten more exposure than the last guy."

"I would rather they had gotten Kanye West," Moorer added, "but I'll take what I can get."

Lynch is a stand-up comedian, musician and actor known for his songs that are satirical of daily life and popular culture.

In 2006, he received a Tony nomination for his starring role as Robbie Hart in the Broadway adaptation of The Wedding Singer and has appeared twice on Comedy Central, including a 2000 episode of "Comedy Central Presents . " - one of the highest rated in the series' history.

Lynch has toured with some of the biggest names in comedy, including Bob Saget, Jeff Foxworthy and Mitch Hedberg. He has released one studio album, two live albums and a DVD entitled Live at the El Rey.

According to SPEC, Lynch cites singer/songwriters Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell as his childhood inspirations, and has always considered himself a musician first and a comedian second. His first song was a country number entitled "Beefy Burrito."

"This is going to be a great show whether you are familiar with Lynch's music or not," said SPEC Concerts co-director and College junior Preston Hershorn in a press release. "This is an evening people won't want to miss."

Doors will open at 8 p.m., and Lynch will take the stage at 8:30.

Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, September 30th at 11 a.m. on Locust Walk. Student tickets will cost $15 in advance and $20 at the door, while a limited number will be sold to the general public for $25 on the day of the show.

All tickets are general admission, and can also be purchased online at http://upenn.tickets.musictoday.com.

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