Georgia Military College hosted a comedy show Feb. 12 at the NewDay USA Center for Leadership. All members of the community were welcome to come to the 754-seat Goldstein Theater to watch HBO star and “America’s Got Talent” finalist Gina Brillon.
The New York based actress, writer, and comedian was the first Latina and Puerto Rican finalist on “Americas’ Got Talent.” Brillon brought her relatable and personal style of humor to Milledgeville for a one-night act.
Brillon discussed her style of comedy and what her expectations were before the show started.
“I think I would describe my style of comedy as, I want to say family,” she said, “but it's so much more than that, just life in general, if that makes sense. Just things that I think that we can all connect with about love, life, and just existing in this world.”
This style of comedy is largely influenced by Brillon’s upbringing in the Bronx.
“My upbringing was a huge influence on my voice, on my perspective, both culturally and even class-wise, coming from the Bronx and living in a family neighborhood, which you don't hear a lot about the Bronx. They called it Little Puerto Rico when I was growing up, so a lot of that shaped who I am, and I think the same could be said for a lot of us,” Brillon said. “I think that comedy is the connecting factor that brings together a lot of us, whether it's my perspective or someone else, we're all talking about different walks in life and what you connect with.
The GMC performing arts Series “Encore” is responsible for most events at the leadership center. Their goal is to be the center of the performing arts in the Milledgeville area. They have hosted other comedians and tribute bands over the years, including a Jimmy Buffet tribute band.
Mark Weaver, assistant vice president of the leadership center, talked about the goals he has for the program.
“We had an ABBA tribute band two years ago, so those summer concerts are very successful. Then at Christmas, we try to do something big for Christmas, such as the Atlanta Pops Orchestra with a guest artist. Last year, we had four-time Grammy winner Yolanda Adams, which was very successful,” he said. “The goal is to keep diversifying, bringing in new things for people, and hopefully the community will start filling it up. Not really for us. I mean, there's not really money to be made here.”
Brillon resonated well with her crowd, often keeping them engaged and laughing with a diverse crowd from the community. The Goldstein Theater will continue to host a wide variety of performing acts, including a possible traveling dance show out of New York.