02/20/26 – Rickey Smiley, Deray Davis, Lady Rico, & Grossman: All About Comedy Festival

Comedy icon, radio legend, and “King of Southern Comedy” Rickey Smiley leads the All About Comedy Festival — a night of unstoppable laughter featuring special guest DeRay Davis, Comedy’s Smooth Operator and star of stage and screen.

Also featuring Lady Rico, raw comedian, actress, and radio personality, and hosted by Houston’s own Grossman, this powerhouse lineup delivers nonstop laughs, outrageous stories, and pure entertainment. Friday, February 20, 2025, at the iconic Arena Theatre. Doors open at 7PM.

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About The Show

Rickey Smiley, Deray Davis, Lady Rico, & Grossman: All About Comedy Festival

Comedy icon, radio legend, and “King of Southern Comedy” Rickey Smiley leads the “All About Comedy Festival” in Houston

Friday, February 20, 2026 | Arena Theatre – Houston, TX

Houston – Get ready for a blockbuster night of laughter! Comedy icon Rickey Smiley headlines the All About Comedy Festival, bringing together a powerhouse lineup featuring DeRay Davis, Lady Rico, and host Grossman for one unforgettable night only on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the legendary Arena Theatre. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Secure your tickets now for a night you’ll never forget!

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Rickey Smiley – The King of Southern Comedy

Rickey Smiley has built his career on laughs, characters, and heart. As host of the nationally syndicated Rickey Smiley Morning Show, he has become a radio icon, bringing his unique brand of comedy and community connection to millions of listeners across the country. From prank-calls that became legendary to his unmistakable persona, Smiley’s voice and presence have shaped modern Southern comedy.

In 2025, Smiley returns to the spotlight with his new Hulu stand-up special “Fool-ISH”, his first major solo special in over a decade. The project was filmed live, centered on themes of resilience and personal transformation, a testament to Smiley’s ability to evolve while staying rooted in what makes him timeless. Now, he brings that same energy to the stage, leading a festival designed to make Houston laugh, connect, and celebrate comedy at its best.

DeRay Davis – Comedy’s Smooth Operator

Joining Smiley at the top of the bill is comedy’s smooth operator and star of stage and screen, DeRay Davis. Known for his breakout film roles in Barbershop and 21 Jump Street, as well as appearances on hit television series like Empire and Snowfall, Davis brings a dynamic on-stage presence that seamlessly blends pop culture, sharp humor, and fearless storytelling. As a “scene-stealing comedian,” he has also made a name for himself in game show hosting and hip-hop culture, and audiences around the world have come to expect nothing less than high-energy, versatile performances from him. This festival marks yet another milestone in his journey, as he brings big-screen charisma and stand-up mastery to one unforgettable night in Houston.

Lady Rico – Comedian, Actress, and Radio Personality

Also featured on the lineup is Lady Rico, raw comedian, actress, and radio personality, whose unapologetic style and bold humor have made her a standout voice among today’s top comedic talents. With sharp wit and fearless stage presence, she adds an essential dose of energy and female perspective to the festival.

Grossman – Houston Comedy Veteran and Laugh Master Host

Rounding out the night, the festival will be hosted by Houston’s own Grossman, whose local roots and sharp comedic timing make him the perfect emcee for this high-voltage event. With his hometown credibility, he will guide the audience through the night, warm-up style and keep the momentum rolling for every act.

Event Details

📅 Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
📍 Venue: Arena Theatre – Houston, TX
🕖 Doors Open: 7:00 p.m.
🎟️ Tickets: Available via Ticketmaster at https://bit.ly/43NGCwQ

Don’t miss this extraordinary night of comedy featuring Rickey Smiley, DeRay Davis, Lady Rico, and Houston’s own Grossman — the laughs begin here! Get your tickets today.

Independently produced event, not associated with Arena Theatre.

Press Release by Informitron – Press bulletins and multicultural entertainment communications.

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To purchase tickets visit our box office, charge by phone at 713-772-5900 or ticketmaster.com

Arena Theatre
7326 Southwest Freeway (Hwy. 59)
Houston, TX 77074

Click here for Google Map
Neighborhoods: Sharpstown, Westside

Arena Theatre is conveniently located on Southwest Freeway between the Galleria and Sugar Land. Exit either Bellaire Blvd or Fondren Rd, and look for Boxer Property’s two Arena Place dark brown office buildings. Look for the Flags on top of the towers or the Westwood College sign as a visual indicator. Paid parking is available onsite with two covered, multilevel parking garages that connect directly to the theatre without exposure to the weather.

About The Arena Theatre

The Arena Theatre has been bringing in mainstream entertainers since the ’70s. Its round revolving stage allows audience members a degree of intimacy with the performers unavailable in a traditional arrangement. The Arena recently received a substantial facelift under new ownership. Upgrades include new sound, lighting systems, led screens and seats. Arena Theatre’s ambitious booking approach has brought some of the best national and international pop, urban, Latin, country and rock talents to Houston.