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Entertainers and Earl:
Autographed Photographs From the
Earl Willams Collection
An Exhibit in
Archives & Special Collections,
November 6, 2002 - January 31, 2003.
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Earl R. Williams (BS 1951, MA 1960) joined Ball State University in 1959
as director of conferences and special events and in 1967 became general manager
of Emens Auditorium, a position he held for 25 years.
Upon his retirement the Ball State University Board of Trustees passed a resolution to
rename the lobby of Emens Auditorium the "Earl R. Williams Lounge." The resolution
stated that "Mr. Williams is a major reason for the success of the auditorium during its
initial 25-year operation. Through his unique personal skills and professional accomplishments,
Mr. Williams has enhanced many lives and has brought honor and distinction to Ball State University."
The board recognized Williams for "scheduling programs appealing to a variety of tastes while keeping
ticket prices both competitive and reasonable." (Muncie Evening Press ,6/22/89, p. 24)
In 2002, Williams donated his collection of autographed photographs
to the Ball State University Archives and Special Collections. Forty of two hundred and twenty-eight
photographs in the collection were exhibited in Archives and Special Collections, from
November 6, 2002 through January 31, 2003. Twelve of the images are used in this online exhibit.
For further information, call 765-285-5078.
The Entertainers
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Former President Gerald Ford spoke on
March 28, 1985, at Emens Auditorium. He presented his views on American foreign policy, student financial
aid, and domestic affairs. The Secret Service kept a close eye on the audience while Ford gave his
hour-long speech.
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Former U.N. Ambassador Jeane Kirkpatrick
spoke on January 27, 1988. She presented her world view, and spoke about the chances of a
woman becoming president of the United States, though she confirmed that she would not run for
elected office. She also defended the United States foreign policy record as it compares to
other contemporary nations.
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On October 13, 1980, David Letterman returned to
his alma mater, and showered Ball State students with jokes about the University and Muncie, especially
singling out the football team's lack of real competition.
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Comedian (now talk show host) Jay Leno appeared in Emens
Auditorium on October 27, 1988. During his act he commented on Dan Quayle as vice-presidential candidate. He discussed the differences between the sexes, and abused
latecomers to the show
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Liberace appeared on September 26, 1984. In front of a
sold-out crowd, he wore his typical flamboyant costumes, which he changed many times during the performance.
On stage with him was his 24-piece orchestra, his traditional lighted grand piano, and candelabra.
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Comedian Bill Cosby appeared on March 28, 1969,
in Emens Auditorium. After the show he gave an interview to the Daily News where he commented
on his upcoming show, his childhood in Philadelphia, and gave advice to college students.
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Chuck Mangione has played at Emens three times,
and this picture was signed during his September 28, 1983 appearance. Playing both flugelhorn and
electric piano Mangione displayed his talents. He occasionally told the audience personal anecdotes
about life as a musician. One story involved using cheat sheets to play the Dominican Republic's National
Anthem.
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Coretta Scott King spoke at Emens Auditorium,
November 7, 1979. She spoke about human rights, and the need for people to continue to demand
basic human freedoms. She also answered questions about her late husband and the portrayal of him
in the media and films.
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Jazz musician Louis Armstrong appeared
at Homecoming, October 10, 1964, performing twice on the same day with his band, the All-Stars.
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Blues performer Ray Charles appeared
at Emens Auditorium, November 7, 1985. Charles performed with his 16-piece orchestra, and four
backup singers known as the Raylettes. He played jazz, soul, and blues tunes for those in Emens
auditorium for nearly two hours.
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Actor/comedian Jerry Lewis appeared during Homecoming, October 7, 1978.
His show was typical "Jerry Lewis" with the actor running around the stage while telling jokes and
delivering one-liners. However, Lewis also performed several songs, tap-danced, and played piano.
The brief show was well received by students.
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Simon and Garfunkel appeared at Emens
Auditorium on November 4, 1967. It was a trying night for the musical team that arrived late to the performance
as a result of car trouble. They had technical difficulties with microphones during their stage
performance. Some audience members complained about the brevity of the show. However, they still
received a standing ovation at the end of their performance.
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