Central City, it’s time to “Git-R-Done!” This Saturday, January 25, comedy legend Larry the Cable Guy will take the stage at the Central City Performing Arts Center as part of his Nebraska Road Trip tour. Known for his quick wit, iconic catchphrases, and deep Nebraska roots, Larry’s comedy is steeped in the humor and charm of small-town life, drawing inspiration from the people, places, and experiences that shaped him. Now, he’s bringing more than just laughs—he’s bringing heart to the heartland.

The excitement has been building since ticket sales opened last November. Fans lined up as early as 5:30 a.m. outside the Bison Activity Dome to secure their seats, braving the cold for a chance to see the comedy icon live. Tara Burkhardt, a local resident, shared her excitement as she waited to buy tickets for her father. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see Larry perform here,” she said. By early afternoon, all 550 seats were sold, ensuring a packed house for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

“When I got the word, I was really excited,” I told Larry during our recent interview. “Why would Larry the Cable Guy be coming to Central City, Nebraska? Our town of 3,000 doesn’t get an opportunity like this very often.”

Larry explained that the idea stemmed from working on his upcoming special. “I’m working on my brand-new special,” he said. “I can’t say who it’s going to be on right now, but I’m writing a whole new act. Instead of just working material in the big cities, I thought it’d be cool to tour smalltown Nebraska. These towns remind me of where I grew up in Pawnee City, and it’s a win-win: I work on my act, and I get to raise money for local theater departments.”

For Larry, the tour is also a chance to explore more of his home state. “Other than golfing a few times out west, I’ve never been to a lot of Nebraska towns,” he said. “It’ll be fun to see these places I always heard about growing up. And I’ve got to say, Nebraska’s got the most towns with a population of 1,000 or less, and I love how proud people are of their communities.”

Proceeds from Saturday’s show will benefit Central City High School’s theater program, something close to Larry’s heart. Growing up in Pawnee City, Larry was actively involved in his school’s theater department, an experience he enjoyed. Through his Git-R-Done Foundation, he’s donated millions to children’s and veterans’ charities. This tour focuses on helping school theater programs across Nebraska.

“It’s fantastic to be in a position where I can give back,” Larry said. “That’s the fun of it. The most enjoyment I get is using my talents to help other people. Seeing smiles on faces, that’s what it’s all about.”

Larry’s pride in small-town Nebraska shines through. He shared memories of his childhood excitement when anything big came to Pawnee City. “I remember a DJ from Omaha coming to Humboldt once. It was the talk of the town for weeks,” he recalled. “Johnny Rodgers played a pickup game in our high school gym once, and the whole town turned out. It’s fun to recreate that kind of buzz in places like Central City.”

Larry’s performance will feature all-new material as he fine-tunes his act for his upcoming special— one he says may be his last. “I’ve done so many specials, and I’m getting older,” he said. “I’ve spent years on the road, raised my family on a tour bus, and I’m at a point where I just want to enjoy more time at home. This special feels like a good way to bring everything full circle. There’s only so many jokes you can write about Walmart! But I’m constantly adding, rewriting, and rearranging. Central City will be part of the ground floor for this special, which I think folks will enjoy.”

The night won’t just be about the jokes. Larry plans to stick around after the show for a Q&A session. “It’ll be like a family reunion,” he said. “If anyone wants to ask about Cars or my career, I’ll be honest with them. It’ll be a little town hall type deal. I think it’ll be fun.”

During our chat, Larry also shared his thoughts on how comedy has changed. “When I started, it was all about getting on Leno, Carson, or Conan. Now, podcasts, YouTube, and social media are the way to build an audience. It’s good for comedians who hustle and love the craft.”

He’s optimistic about the future of comedy, even in the wake of cancel culture. “Comedians just need to do what they do,” he said. “If someone doesn’t like you, they don’t have to watch. It’s a free country. Thankfully, people are starting to get that again, and it’s refreshing.”

Central City’s assistant principal and athletic director, Justin Anderson, summed up the significance of hosting Larry. “We’re thrilled to have him here. It’s a huge honor for our school and community. This showcases what our Performing Arts Center can do and puts Central City on the map.”

For those lucky enough to have tickets to Saturday’s sold out 7 pm show, get ready for a night of laughs, heart, and small-town pride. Because if there’s one thing Larry the Cable Guy proves, it’s that even the smallest towns can make the biggest memories.