The University of Wyoming Violence Prevention Center will host its first-ever “Cowbell
Show” Wednesday, April 22, at 7 p.m. in Pokes Pub, located in the Wyoming Union.
The event, part of Denim Day programming, aims to raise money in support of the Violence
Prevention Center’s initiatives. Students, faculty and staff are all encouraged to
attend and participate.
Admission is free, and QR codes will be available to donate to the Violence Prevention
Center. Money raised will be used to assist with the costs of ongoing violence prevention
workshops provided to all students, faculty and staff, including Green Dot and topics
such as consent and boundaries. The center also provides awareness and outreach events
such as the Love Better Store, Denim Day and Not Your Nana's Bingo.
The Cowbell Show is an “un-talent” show inspired by the classic 1970s television program
“The Gong Show.” Rather than focusing solely on polished performances, the event celebrates
creativity, humor and the unexpected. Participants are invited to showcase talents
of all kinds, from singing and dancing to unconventional or low-skill acts, creating
an entertaining and memorable experience for both performers and the audience.
Designed as a high-energy, inclusive event, the Cowbell Show encourages people to
take risks, have fun and embrace the unpredictable. The goal is to foster a lighthearted
environment where community members can come together, laugh and support an important
cause.
According to Bob Vines, coordinator of the Violence Prevention Center, the event stands
out for its unique and playful approach.
“Because it’s wonderfully awful, it will be a lot of fun. A lot of people can be involved,
and it’s a unique way to celebrate people’s talents and non-talents,” Vines says.
The event is open to performers of all experience levels, and registration is currently
available for those interested in participating. Audience members can expect an evening
filled with surprising acts, laughter and an anything-goes atmosphere where anything
can happen.
By combining entertainment with advocacy, the Cowbell Show highlights the Violence
Prevention Center’s mission while engaging the campus community in a creative and
accessible way.
For more information or to register as a performer, email Vines at rvinesjr@uwyo.edu or call (307) 431-6756.
