The 2025-26 Emporia Arts Council Entertainment Series kicked off Tuesday night with a laugh-out-loud family affair as comedian Preacher Lawson brought his Dysfunctional Family Tour to town.
Lawson was joined on stage by his mother, Mama Lawson, and brother Justin Lawson. Preacher Lawson was the first in his family to delve into comedy as he began writing material in his teenage years, winning several accolades, including the 2015 Funniest Comedian in Florida and the 2016 Seattle International Comedy Competition. He rose to national fame after appearing on America’s Got Talent season 12, where he reached the finals and shortly after began touring the country, sharing his unique and energetic brand of comedy.
Lawson says getting to live out his dreams and doing so with his family right by his side is an experience unlike any other.
Mama Lawson would later come to join her son on stage following an unexpected wardrobe malfunction during one of his shows.
For Justin Lawson, it was some sibling encouragement of sorts that brought him to the stage.
Mama Lawson says they are truly blessed, and she believes the family dynamic they bring with them is a reflection of the audiences for whom they perform.
Justin Lawson says everything is always better when you can share it with the ones you love.
Lawson’s run on season 12 of AGT would not be his last as in addition to touring the country, he has also had return appearances on AGT as a guest and competed on both AGT The Champions and Britain’s Got Talent The Champions in 2019. When asked if he had advice for others looking to chase their dreams as he has, Lawson responded:
Next up in the Entertainment Series is the Legends of Classic Rock appearance Oct. 16.
The Performing Arts Series kicks off with The Rocket Man Show, a tribute to Elton John, at the Emporia Granada Theatre, Wednesday, October 1, at 7 pm.
For tickets or more information, visit EmporiaKSArts.org.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
