The Averitt Center for the Arts will welcome legendary stand-up comic Etta May to the Emma Kelly Theater stage on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.

Described as the reigning "Queen of Southern Sass" and the "Polyester Princess," Etta May has established herself as an icon in American comedy. Winner of the prestigious American Comedy Awards’ “Comic of the Year,” the Kentucky-born May delivers an authentic, relatable performance packed with razor-sharp truths, irony and some deep-fried wisdom.

May’s observational humor stems directly from her real life, she said.

"That’s where my comedy comes from," May said. "I just wait for my husband or kids to do something stupid, and then I write it down."

Before breaking into comedy, she spent 10 years navigating the challenges of being a school bus driver—honing a stage presence that has won over audiences across the globe.

May has headlined the “Southern Fried Chicks Comedy Tour” and has been featured on major national platforms, including Oprah, Showtime, CMT, CBS Sunday Morning, ABC and NBC. She remains a favorite staple on SiriusXM comedy channels. Her performance at the Emma Kelly Theater promises a night of clean, Southern-style wit, enormous attitude, and non-stop laughter.

Critics call May “a master of her craft, and her clean, hilarious look at everyday life is the perfect event for couples, families and comedy lovers throughout the region.”

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit averittcenterforthearts.org or contact the box office directly at (912) 212-2787.