Nebraska’s favorite late-night legend is getting the celebration of a century.
The Lied Center for Performing Arts will host “Carson Tonight: Johnny’s 100th Birthday” on Thursday, Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m., marking what would have been Johnny Carson’s 100th birthday with a one-night-only tribute to the King of Late Night.
The event will blend original Tonight Show clips with live performances from artists who once shared the stage with Carson himself. The lineup includes master magician Lance Burton, singer Marilyn Maye, comedians Wil Shriner and Carol Leifer, and variety performers Mike Caveney and Tina Lenert. The UNL Jazz Orchestra will stand in as the Tonight Show band, performing from original charts used during Carson’s tenure.
“It’s really a big nostalgic celebration of Johnny’s legacy,” said Lauren Silverman Durbin, communications manager for the Lied Center. “If you grew up watching The Tonight Show or fell asleep to it for years, this is a reliving of that particular magic.”
Pat Hazell—a Seinfeld writer, former Tonight Show guest, and Omaha native—will serve as host.
Carson’s ties to Nebraska run deep. A Norfolk native and University of Nebraska–Lincoln alum, he personally provided the final gift that allowed for construction of the Lied Center in the late 1980s. His legacy is still visible across campus through the Carson Theater, the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film, and the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts.
“Johnny loved Nebraska and loved his alma mater,” Durbin said. “It’s fitting to celebrate his 100th birthday right here at the Lied Center, where his impact continues to be felt.”
Tickets are available at liedcenter.org or by calling 402-472-4747.