Comedian Jeff Allen brought his Comedy for Charity/2.0 Tour to American Bank Center Selena Auditorium on Thursday, June 1. The gravelly-voiced performer ambled onto the stage as Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” blared on the PA system to set the mood for his performance that was a fundraising event for the Diocese of Corpus Christi’s Catholic Charities and Mother Teresa Shelter.
Over the course of Allen’s hour and a half performance, the comedian shared his hilarious ruminations on marriage, family life, and the struggles of dealing with the challenges that come with getting older. His brand of “clean comedy” enabled him to be relatable while he shared stories about how he met his wife (his unexpected proposal at an airport baggage claim), her attempts at keeping him healthy (how she bought him a Fitbit), as well as celebrating the joy hidden in everyday events (an unforgettable grandchild-in-the-bathtub moment).
The enthusiastic crowd in Selena Auditorium included Bishop Michael Mulvey, Vicar General Fr. James Stembler, Chancery staff and members of several parishes throughout the diocese. The laughter was all for a good cause, as the money raised from this benefit comedy show will help continue the efforts of Catholic Charities and Mother Teresa Shelter.
As he neared the end of his time onstage, Allen paused, leaned his arm on the microphone stand and set aside his humorous observations to reveal his personal story of redemption. He said that by accepting God in his life, he was delivered from drug addiction and has grown as a person who offers his time and talent to raise money for worthy causes and organizations.
A special reception for Allen was held at the HEB House on Ocean Drive prior to his performance. Invited guests enjoyed food and fellowship, photo ops and a rare chance to chat with the comedian before he took center stage. Dr. Michele Johnston, Executive Director of Catholic Charities and Mother Teresa Shelter, remarked that she and her staff wanted to do something different for this year’s fundraiser, and was glad to see such an enthusiastic response from all who attended.