When is it right to laugh? In the 1930s, as the Nazi party rose to power, cultural phenomena ranging from cabaret to stage comedy provided possibilities for reaction to the racist violence and oppression. Brian Els of the history department examines the German singing sensation of that period known as the Comedian Harmonists to provide a window into this historical moment. The evening will include live renditions of the Comedian Harmonists’ music by Nicole Hanig of the music department and Gregory Pulver’s Musical Theater and Opera Workshop Ensemble. Sponsored by the Garaventa Center for Catholic Intellectual Life and American Culture. Part of Beckman Humor Initiative. Wednesday, October 22 7:30 p.m., Mago Hunt Recital Hall