Political satirist kicks off series

By Todd Luck
Assistant Web Editor

Mark Russell, best known for his PBS comedy specials, is playing at GPAC on Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. as the first in this semester’s Distinguished Speaker Series.

Russell, 72, has always derived his comedy from the headlines, targeting his jokes at both politicians and celebrities alike. His act is a combination of song and stand-up. He is well known for turning popular tunes into irreverent satires using his piano.

When asked if he has writers for his material, he once responded, “Oh, yes…I have 535 writers. One hundred in the Senate and 435 in the House of Representatives.”

He started his career in Washington, DC singing his humorous songs in smoke filled bars. Eventually he found himself in a risky two-week gig at the Shoreham Hotel. The gig ended up lasting for 20 years. Politicians would come by to hear him poke fun at what they had just done that day.

His success has gone far beyond his lounge act. “The Mark Russell Comedy Special,” is now in its 27th season and has constantly been among PBS’s highest rated programs. TV Guide called Russell “the funniest man on television.”

Russell tours campuses and coliseums across the country on a schedule that would make some rock stars jealous. He writes a nationally syndicated column and has made several tapes and videos. He was also a weekly commentator on CNN’s “Inside Politics Weekend.”

In a recent interview he was asked why, at the age of 72, he continues to tour. He responded, “I do it for the sake of art, Art Schwartz that is-and you can spell that any way you like-my ex-wife’s attorney!”

With Russell, you can always expect something smart, topical, and funny. Just don’t expect to get any straight answers out of him.

The tickets are free for students and $10 for the general public.