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Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. ET
Location: In-person at the Birthplace of Country Music, Performance Theatre and streamed on Radio Bristol’s YouTube Channel
Cost: Free and open to the public
Three of the era’s country performers, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Roni Stoneman, and Minnie Pearl, became crossover successes on television – Ford as the host of a variety show and Stoneman and Pearl as performers on other shows. Through a blending of musical performances with comedy sketches and other acts, Ford’s variety show was reminiscent of early vaudeville, and its skits – along with programs like Hee Haw – included characters that reflected common Appalachian stereotypes, especially in the areas of speech and dress. This program will explore the impact of country music and comedy on the small screen through these three performers.
Erika Barker is the Curatorial Manager at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. She is active in a variety of community organizations and activities, including the Awards Committee for the Tennessee Association of Museums; as President of Arts Alliance Mountain Empire; on the Little City Roller Derby team; and as lead singer for Junction 4961.
Julia Underkoffler is the Birthplace of Country Music Museum’s Collections Specialist. She recently graduated from East Tennessee State University with an MA in Public History; is active with the Northeast Tennessee Museums Association; and is an avid fan of football and live music.
