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Legendary comedian “Munroe” announces retirement from BJO’s Kentucky Opry

Levisa Lazer

There is not a more recognizable face on stage and off, than the house comedian for Billie Jean Osborne’s Kentucky Opry at the Mountain Arts Center (MAC).

Fred Goble, also known as “Munroe,” has announced his retirement after 30 years of entertaining locals, out of state tour buses, businesses, and politicians. June 19 will be his last show. It will be a night for “Munroe” as the MAC will honor and thank him.

Billie Jean Osborne’s Kentucky Opry had their first public show in May of 1991, and Goble has participated in every season since then. Not only was he part of the cast, he has had many duties off stage that made the Kentucky Opry and the MAC what it is today.

Goble has been a part of the show’s creative team, produced the majority of the comedy, written songs, helped with the Jr. Pros, and even acted as a “tour manager” in the early days of traveling.

Goble was also instrumental helping to secure funding for the MAC leading up to its grand opening. Since the first stage light beamed in 1996, he has been a tireless promoter of the performing arts center. He has held various jobs with the MAC itself, including Assistant Director at one time.

Goble has consistently gone out of his way to let someone know about what the next coming attraction is, or the top-of-the-line technology that exists within.

“A Night for Munroe” will be Saturday, June 19th, as that is also opening night of the summer season. The shows will continue on June 25th-26th. After a July 4th holiday break, the season will finish up July 10, 17, and 24. Stay tuned for more details about the season, as well as possible special guests.  

Tickets are $20, or $15 for groups. They can be purchased by visiting http://www.macarts.com

Paul Hitchcock earned his Masters in Communications from Morehead State University and Bachelors in Radio-TV/Psychology from Georgetown College. A veteran broadcaster for more than 40 years and an avid fan of blues, jazz and American roots music. Hitchcock has been with WMKY since 1986 and was named General Manager in 2003. He currently hosts "Muddy Bottom Blues" (Fri., 8pm-9pm), "Nothin' But The Blues" (Sat., 8pm-12am), "Sunday Night Jazz Showcase" and "Live From The Jazz Lounge" (Sun., 8pm-9pm) and "The Golden Age of Radio" (Sun., 2pm-3pm). He also serves as producer for "A Time For Tales" and "The Reader's Notebook."
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