Humorist Nick Offerman, UI alumnus, returns to the site of his youthful matriculation with a collection of sawdusty musings on living with enthusiasm, crafting things in wood and most importantly, cultivating mirth.  He is generously performing two shows as fundraisers for the future Japan House Annex. Tickets for the Virginia Theatre show on December 3 are on sale for the public on Friday, November 16. (thevirginia.org/)

Mr. Offerman wanted to do a second show specifically for students of the University of Illinois at Foellinger Auditorium. This show will take place on December 4 and tickets will go on sale at 9am on Wednesday, November 14. (www.eventbrite.com)

Mr. Nick Offerman is best known for his role as Ron Swanson on the NBC hit comedy series "Parks and Recreation," and he was the U. of I.’s commencement speaker at Memorial Stadium last year. In addition to his acting career, Mr. Offerman is a well-known author of numerous best-selling books and woodworker who also founded, Offerman Woodshop, in Los Angeles. Offerman is a native of Minnoka, Illinois and graduate from the University of Illinois in theatre in 1993. As a theatre student, Offerman enrolled in classes taught by Professor Shozo Sato, founder of Japan House. The two have remained close and Offerman continues to honor his Sensei through his generous support of Japan House.

Japan House is overwhelmed by Nick’s generosity and continued support of its mission and efforts to share traditional Japanese Arts and Culture in the community and campus. Japan House shares deepest gratitude to Nick for his friendship and kindness. Japan House also thanks the community and campus for embracing cultural diversity and for their eagerness to expand their understanding of the world in which we live.