By Alyssa Merwin
During the first week of November, students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University enjoyed homecoming by illustrating their characters in the various prepared events and activities that culminated in a show by comedian Stephen Lynch.
The theme of Homecoming at ERAU was “Illustrate Your Character (Cartoon Characters).” To celebrate the theme, a wide range of activities were planned for the students and the public. These activities included a chalk art contest, an air jam in which students were able to show off their air band abilities and a golf tournament. The most anticipated event was the performance of Stephen Lynch, a stand-up comedian/ musician who has appeared on Comedy Central and starred in a Broadway adaption of “The Wedding Singer.”
The show took place on Nov 5, at Embry Riddle’s ICI Center. Students from all around the Volusia County area excitedly waited in line in the cold to see the show, and once the doors opened, they flooded in. At 8:30 the show began and Lynch opened with his song, “Waiting” from his newest album. After he finished the song, he said with a laugh, “It’s always been my dream to perform in a gym in Central Florida. Take that, Dane Cook.”
Lynch went on to play a handful of other songs such as “Crazy Peanuts” which is based on Charles M. Schulz’s comic strip “Peanuts” and “Dear Diary,”,a compilation of diary entries describing the imminent misfortunes of famous people in history.
But Lynch did more than just play music, he also made it a point to interact with the audience which he said later, he enjoyed very much.
“I always try to get myself booked for college or university shows once in a while,” Lynch said after the show. “I like doing colleges, there’s always an in-built audience and it’s a different crowd to entertain.”
The finale ended with Lynch playing “Hallelujah,” a song that he wrote about his wife.
“I don’t identify myself with any specific comedian. I’m just a guy who writes songs,” said Lynch. He also had some advice for aspiring musicians. “Just find something you like doing, and work hard at it.”