Bill Cosby Returns to Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 1/16

Bill Cosby, one of the most prolific comedians of all time, returns to the VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL on Sunday, January 16 at 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Bill Cosby is, by any standards, one of the most influential stars in America today. He represents the voice of a vast, ordinary world, seeking to provide an insight into our roles as parents, children, family members, men and women. His comedy transcends age, gender, and cultural barriers, dazzling generations of fans with his hilarious routines, iconic albums, best-selling books such as Fatherhood and the groundbreaking The Cosby Show. He points out the humor in our lives, and in doing so, he touches our hearts. COSBY'S lifelong contributions to American culture were recognized with a Kennedy Center Honor in 1998 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002, America's highest civilian honor.

Bill Cosby broke television's racial barrier with a role in I Spy, becoming the first African American to costar on a television series and win three consecutive Emmys for "Outstanding Lead Actor" in the dramatic series. The veteran comic hosted the Emmy-winning cartoon Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, which began airing in the 1970s and was made into a film in 2004. The show, based on Cosby's childhood in Philadelphia, was designed to educate and entertain. The former Navy serviceman and college football player's illustrious list of accomplishments includes roles on the children's educational show Electric Company, and creating and producing the Emmy award winning Little Bill, which is based on his bestselling book series. He is one of the funniest men in America and his qualities have endeared him to people from all walks of life.

Ticket prices range from $10 to $65. For more information and to buy tickets, contact the Van Wezel Box office at (941) 953-3368 or log onto www.vanwezel.org. This show is sponsored by Marriott Properties & Herald Tribune Media Group.