09/02/2026
๐ Laugh-out-loud and deeply honest, this award-winning comedian tells the true story behind the name โJoe White.โ
JOE WHITE: EMOTIONAL BLACKMALE at ENCORE Rockingham Wed 11 Feb.
From refugee camp to viral sensation, comedian Tilahun Hailu (aka Joe White) has won multiple FRINGE WORLD Comedy Awards and sold out shows at the biggest arts festival in the world, the Edinburgh Fringe.
Now, with the birth of his daughter Leilani โ half Ethiopian, half Maltese โ he's realised his most popular stage name, "Joe White," can no longer stand.
In his powerful and deeply honest new comedy hour, Tilahun reveals the true story behind his "Joe White" identity. He traces his desperate 25-year pursuit of acceptance, from growing up an Ethiopian refugee in Sudan, to the difficult journey of migrating to Australia and trying to fit in, by trading his beautiful birth name Tilahun (meaning "be a shade" or shelter) for "Joe".
Emotional Blackmale is more than just a comedy show; itโs a declaration of war on inherited trauma and a commitment to reclaim his identity. Join Tilahun Hailu on this urgent, hilarious, and vital journey to find his shelter, and become the father his daughter deserves.
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ยฝ "My goodness was he funny" - On The House
๐ 7pm โข Wednesday 11 February
Book your tickets now here - https://fringeworld.com.au/whats-on/joe-white-emotional-blackmale-fw2026
Rocky Fringe Festival โ Bringing the Fringe World Festival vibe to Rockingham. Proudly presented by three local Rockingham businesses Hidden Detours, Encore Rockingham and Ritz Party Hire & Supplies
Joe White - Comedian Rediscover Rockingham Tourism Rockingham