Hold onto your funny bones, because The Eric and Joe Show is making its return to the State Theater next weekend! This year’s show, hilariously titled That Didn’t Age Well, is set to bring three nights of side-splitting laughter to the historic stage.
For the past 11 years, co-creators Joe Bennett and Eric Clemens have been turning their quirky ideas into a comedy show that somehow manages to get even weirder with age. “We’re in our 40s now, and yet, here we are still doing this,” Joe admits with a laugh. But hey, if it ain’t broke (even if their brains might be a little), don’t fix it!
From Humble Beginnings to a Full-Blown Production
It all started on a whim. Joe and Eric were just a couple of guys putting on sketches for a Christian weekend retreat. But what began as a one-off idea has since grown into a full-blown comedy event that Elizabethtown folks look forward to every year. “We honestly thought it would be a one-time thing,” Joe recalls. “But here we are, 11 years later, and people keep showing up. We’re so grateful.”
The show’s humble beginnings included just one performance and a basic projector setup. But now? The Eric and Joe Show has evolved into a three-night spectacle complete with a house band, flashy videos, a VIP party, and even a red-carpet entrance. “This thing has taken on a life of its own,” Eric says. “What started with just a few friends and family has turned into this massive community event, and we couldn’t be happier.”
Why Do They Keep Doing It? It’s All About the Laughter
Year after year, Eric and Joe keep coming back to the stage for one simple reason—they love making people laugh. “We get to do this with our family and friends, and now our kids are part of the show too,” Joe shares. “There’s nothing better than hearing an audience laugh at something you’ve created.”
But it’s not just about the laughs for laughs’ sake. Over the years, they’ve heard from audience members who’ve told them how the show is a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life. “Knowing we can give people a couple of hours to just relax and laugh—it’s a gift for us too,” Eric adds.
The Secret Behind the Skits: Joe’s “Broken Brain”
Eric may be the face on stage, but he insists that Joe is the brains behind the operation—literally. “All the ideas come from Joe’s broken brain,” Eric jokes. “He’s the one who comes up with the skits, the crazy sets, everything. Without Joe, this show wouldn’t happen.”
The creative process is a year-round affair for the duo. Throughout the year, they jot down ideas—whether it’s something they’ve experienced in real life or just a random thought that pops into their heads. By the time the new year rolls around, a group of friends gathers to brainstorm and turn those ideas into the hilarious sketches the audience has come to love.
Giving Back: Supporting Hope Academy for Kids
This year’s show isn’t just about the laughs. Eric and Joe are once again partnering with a local non-profit, this year’s show benefits Hope Academy for Kids, a cause close to their hearts. “We love being able to give back to such a great organization,” Joe says. So, every laugh you share and every ticket you buy helps support a fantastic cause.
Don’t Miss It!
The Eric and Joe Show: That Didn’t Age Well is set for 7 p.m. on Nov. 22 and 23, with a matinee at 5 p.m. on Nov. 24. Tickets are available now at theericandjoeshow.com, with general admission priced at $15. For those looking to level up their experience, VIP tickets at $50 include preferred seating, a 2024 show shirt, a VIP gift bag, access to a VIP party, snacks, and more.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-timer, this is one show you won’t want to miss. So, grab your tickets, gather your friends, and get ready to laugh until your cheeks hurt. After all, a night with Eric and Joe is exactly the kind of escape we all need!
For tickets and more info, visit theericandjoeshow.com.
See you at the State Theater for a night of laughter, fun, and maybe just a little bit of weirdness.