Kevin Hart stormed into Eugene as a part of his current college tour, premiering his new film The Wedding Ringer, before taking the stage at Matthew Knight Arena for an intimate arena show that never let up on the laughter. A strict no cell phone policy was in effect, as Hart was performing material that may appear on a new television special.
Joking about everything from his family, to a raccoon that threatens to kill him, to patient airport bathroom fans, Hart offered little down time for the audience to regain its breath from laughing so hard. With multiple already great comedy specials under his belt, Hart may be performing the best material of his career right now.
Multiple audience members, only those within earshot, could be heard during quiet moments saying variations of, “My stomach hurts from laughing.” The prospect of an arena comedy show seemed unnatural at first, but Hart won the crowd over immediately and it felt as if it was a show in a comedy club.
As always, Hart’s loud and cranky father played a central role in the show, threatening that if he refuses to discipline his children, they will turn to a life full of drugs and low-life pleasures. His son is being taught the hard way how to become a man. Braving the untamed wilderness of the suburbs, Hart watches from behind the safety of a sliding glass door as his son attempts to avoid whatever wildlife may be lurking in the dark driveway.
His daughter currently has an affinity for hiding around the house for hours on end and jumping out at Hart in an attempt to scare him to death. Her efforts are so dedicated that she now hides with a fanny pack full of snacks and a full canteen.
The night began with an excellent set by Joey Wells, dissecting the distinct phases of college life, beginning with the “freshman 15 and pregnant” phase before developing the swagger filled “senior walk.”
Na’im Lynn followed and his set also touched on aspects of college life and personal hygiene (or lack thereof among freshmen) before diving into jokes about life in general. A highlight was his description of the ideal body, which is to “look good from a car window.”
Earlier in the day, Hart previewed his new film The Wedding Ringer, which will be released in theaters on January 15. Valley River Center movie theater showed the film and approximately 200 people were on the premises just waiting for the opportunity to see Kevin Hart in person.
At the screening, Hart was given a green Fighting Duck Jersey. It was a medium-sized jersey. Hart and his little frame joked at the show that it was large enough that he could walk around the house with no pants on and no one would ever know.
Hart left the stage with a long and gracious thank you to the city of Eugene, the University of Oregon and the equally gracious crowd. Hart has found the perfect blend of unrelenting humor, mixed with patches of wisdom, leading to an unforgettable comedy show.
Follow Craig Wright on Twitter @wgwcraig