"Once Upon a Mattress"

Coming up next weekend is a show I've been looking forward to ever since First Stage decided to present it - Once Upon a Mattress.

I'm anxious to see it because I've never seen it live on stage before - and because I loved the original production on television with Carol Burnett playing the part of the princess. It's one of the roles - on Broadway and on TV - that made her famous before the TV show named after her made her an icon.

I'm also looking forward to seeing First Stage's young performers - there's a lot of amazing talent in this cast, and there are lots of great songs (and comedic scenes) for them to tackle.

I'll have more about the show in the days ahead, but just remember: it starts this Friday at the Renaissance Theatre (the old Huntington High School), and if you miss it, you'll kick yourself.

In case you've never seen the show, here's a recap: If you thought you knew the story of The Princess and the Pea, you may be in for a walloping surprise! Did you know, for instance, that Princess Winnifred actually swam the moat to reach Prince Dauntless the Drab? Or that Lady Larken's love for Sir Harry provided a rather compelling reason that she reach the bridal altar posthaste? Or that, in fact, it wasn't the pea at all that caused the princess a sleepless night? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the familiar classic of royal courtship and comeuppance provides for some sidesplitting shenanigans. Chances are you will never look at fairy tales quite the same way again.

Here are the details: Once Upon a Mattress
November 12, 13, 19, 20 at 8:00 p.m.
and
Sunday November 21 at 2:30 p.m.

Special school performance November 18 at 9:30 am

Renaissance Art Center
900 8th Street Huntington, WV

Tickets are available at the door or by calling the ticket line 304-416-KIDS (5437)

Tickets $14.00 for adults and $12.00 for children 12 and under

Group rates are available for groups of 10 or more.

For more info www.firststagetheatre.org

A Concert for a Great Cause

I had a wonderful time this evening at the No Place Like Home concert to benefit Hospice of Huntington.

The stage was filled with lots of talent, including good friends like Clint McElroy, C.E. Wilson, Ryan Hardiman, Mary Olson, Linda Reynolds, Jack Cirillo and Jane Modlin (to name just a few) and quite a few young performers who are veterans of First Stage Theatre - special kudos to Maggie Saunders, Elizabeth Schmitz, Hannah Stevenson, Elijah Boyles and Caleb Donahoe for their fantastic solos!

A tip of the hat to directors Mary and Tommy Smirl - it's a huge undertaking to put together a show like that, and they did a fantastic job!

Here's the story from today's Herald-Dispatch:

It was a unique fundraiser that brought tears, smiles and laughter to the audience at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center in Huntington on Saturday night.

A musical called No Place Like Home was put on by the Friends of Hospice House to benefit Hospice of Huntington. It was compiled using stories submitted by families whose lives had been impacted by the Hospice House.

Paul Callicoat, co-owner of Route 60 Music, lost his parents seven months apart 14 years ago. Hospice of Huntington was there at the end of both of their lives, helping them and the family during the final days.

"When they asked me to help, I was honored," said Callicoat, who played the ukelele for one of the songs. "They took great care of my parents and made it easier for us children. I've always respected the organization because they were there for my family when the time came."

Charlene Farrell, president and CEO of Hospice of Huntington, said the event encompassed the emotions of the families. But it wasn't all tears and sadness. Farrell said once they know the battle is over and the end is near, it's easier to enjoy the time that's left. That usually means lots of love, laughter and smiles.

Farrell praised the efforts of co-directors Tommy and Mary Smirl, Lara Donahoe, Linda Reynolds and Connie Anthony, along with the producers, musicians, performers and stage crew that helped put it together.

Sonya Hall, the president of the Friends of Hospice, said the idea spawned from conversations about how Hospice of Huntington had touched lives and the need to share those stories. She also said it fit as a fundraiser because of how personal it was.

"It's a musical based on their stories," Hall said. "Everywhere we go, we hear from people who have been touched by Hospice."

Performers included a children's Angel Choir, area high school students and residents.

All the proceeds benefit Hospice of Huntington.

On Stage This Weekend

You have several great shows to choose from this weekend - and here's the rundown:

- No Place Like Home - The Friends of Hospice auxiliary group will present a showcase of acting, song and dance 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6, at the Keith Albee Performing Arts Center. General admission tickets start are $15; loge and first row seats on the main level are $25. Reserved seats and tables are available. Groups of 10 or more receive a 10% discount (excludes table seating). For tickets call Hospice of Huntington at 304-529-4217 weekdays until 4:30 p.m. or 304-690-5184 after 4:30 p.m., or visit www.hospiceofhuntington.org to download a ticket order form.

- Little Shop of Horrors - Pullman Plaza Players presents the musical comedy at the Pullman Plaza Hotel Nov. 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $30 for dinner and the show. The show only is $15. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.pullmanplayhouse.webs.com, on the Facebook group "Pullman Plaza Playhouse,” at the front desk of the Pullman Plaza Hotel or by calling 304-525-1001.

- Dreamgirls - Charleston Light Opera Guild will present the Broadway hit musical at the Civic Center Little Theater Nov. 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Check 'em out!

Farewell to Jerry Bock

Sad news - Jerry Bock, the composer of the music for Fiddler on the Roof and many other shows, passed away this morning.

Here's the story from the Associated Press:

An attorney for Jerry Bock says the Tony Award-winning composer of such hit Broadway musicals as Fiddler on the Roof and Fiorello! has died.

Richard M. Ticktin said Bock died Wednesday morning at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, N.Y., of heart failure. He was 81.

Together with lyricist Sheldon Harnick, Bock wrote the powerful score to Fiddler on the Roof, one of the most successful productions in the history of the American musical theater. It earned the two men Tonys in 1965.

Bock and Harnick also took home Tonys for the music and lyrics to Fiorello! in 1960. In addition, Bock was nominated for Tonys in 1967 for The Apple Tree and in 1971 for The Rothschilds.

Bock's other works include The Body Beautiful, Mr. Wonderful and She Loves Me.

Here's one of my favorite clips from the film version of "Fiddler" (with subtitles, no less):

Benefit Concert for Hospice of Huntington

A reminder about this upcoming concert for a great cause:

The Friends of Hospice auxiliary group is planning a spectacular showcase of acting, song and dance to be held at the Keith Albee Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6.

The No Place Like Home production will include appearances by well-known artists throughout our theatrical and performing arts community and features real-life hospice stories that combine inspiration, humor and sentiment.

According to co-Director Mary Smirl, the show can best be described as a “funny, touching, musical evening to celebrate life’s unplanned moments.”

General admission tickets start are $15; loge and first row seats on the main level are $25. Reserved seats and tables are available. Groups of 10 or more receive a 10% discount (excludes table seating).

For tickets call Hospice of Huntington at 304-529-4217 weekdays until 4:30 p.m. or 304-690-5184 after 4:30 p.m.

Visit www.hospiceofhuntington.org to download a ticket order form. Proceeds benefit Hospice of Huntington.

On Stage in November

After 14 shows last month, November calms down a bit with a mere five shows to choose from. Here's the list:

- Once Upon a Mattress - First Stage Theatre Company presents the musical comedy at the Renaissance Theatre (the old Huntington High School) Nov. 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 8 p.m., and Nov. 21 at 2:30 p.m.

- Little Shop of Horrors - Pullman Plaza Players presents the musical comedy at the Pullman Plaza Hotel Nov. 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 7 at 2 p.m.

- The Good Doctor - The Marshall Theatre Alliance presents the comedy at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center Nov. 10 - 13 at 8 p.m.

- Mary - CYAC offers its annual production about the mother of Jesus at the WVSU Capitol Center in Charleston Nov. 26 - 30 and Dec. 1 - 3 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 27 at 2 p.m.

- Dreamgirls - Charleston Light Opera Guild will present the Broadway hit musical at the Civic Center Little Theater Nov. 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 21 at 3 p.m.

What is the "Pay It Forward Anti-Benefit?"

I received an email from my pal Bruce Rous talking about an unusual event coming up soon. Here's what he says:

I am excited to tell you about a new performance I'm working on: It's the Pay It Forward Anti-Benefit.

Weird name, right? What it is - a performance from some amazing performers, all accompanied by me, your favorite former Broadway player, turned piano teacher! It's a collaborative effort presented by theatre gym (a group of theatre folk, who work on honing their performance skills every week) and Highlawn Presbyterian Church (where I serve as organist).

We figured there were so many worthwhile benefits each month. However, each one requires a good deal of cash for the audience member to be admitted. And the cash goes to a specific charity. But what about those folks who don't have $20 or $30 to offer their local charities? Might they also want to help charities/worthwhile causes, while they don't have that kind of cash to spend?

We came up with the idea of an "Anti-Benefit," for which the audience members don't have to spend money. We're actually going to pay $1 to each audience member who attends (only for the first 100 reservations, but after that all audience members will be admitted free of charge). We're paying people to come hear us sing! Now that's a deal!

There is a catch. With that $1 comes some responsibility. You are requested to "pay it forward," that is, do something nice for someone else. Something that might help change someone's life. Here's a blurb from our Facebook post: Rather than the typical benefit, where the audience is charged admission to help to a specific charity, we invite audience members to a cabaret, and pay them $1 for attending!

We give each audience member $1 (only first 100 reservations. All others admitted free of charge). The twist is, it's seed money, they have to pay it forward. How? Only $1?

Here are some ideas:

There's this homeless guy in my town. He collects cans. I started putting my cans in the alley for him. Then I thought, "Hey, he's doing my recycling for me." So I started rolling up a dollar and putting it in one of the cans.

Or, you're a well-connected business person. You take your dollar, and dare your friends to match it - and give the total to your favorite charity.

One lady, who works at MU, says she's going to use her $1 to buy coffee for the parking office, surely the least-appreciated office at MU.

Or you send your dollar to a country where it will feed a child. Or help rebuild. Or to an American place where tragedy has happened.

We invite audience members to share where the dollars have gone via email.

------------

theatre gym and Highlawn Presbyterian Church present:

PAY IT FOWARD
An “Anti-Benefit” Night of Song
Featuring amazing performers – accompanied by Bruce S. Rous

NOVEMBER 13 – 8:00 p.m.
Highlawn Presbyterian Church
28th Street and Collis Avenue, Huntington, W.Va.

No cost. Only inspiration. WE CAN HELP change the world.
$1 CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Make reservations by Nov. 10 – fwdpay@gmail.com

On Stage This Weekend

You have several great shows to choose from this weekend. Here's the rundown:

- Little Shop of Horrors - the musical / horror / comedy will be presented at the Pullman Plaza Hotel at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 29-30. Tickets are $30 for dinner and the show. The show only is $15. There will also be a special performance at midnight Sunday, Oct. 31. The midnight show is $15.

- Hector's Warehouse and Other Ghost Stories - the show features six stories of suspense and the supernatural, inspired by true events. Presented by Contemporary Youth Arts Company, performances are Friday, Oct. 29 at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 30 at 8 p.m. and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Oct. 31. All performances are at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater, located at 123 Capitol Street in Charleston. Tickets are $5.50 for students and seniors, and $9.50 for adults.

- The Art of Murder - Kanawha Players presents the play Oct. 29 and 30 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 31 at 2 p.m. at the Kanawha Players Theatre. Tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for children.

- Clive Barker's Frankenstein in Love - Red Lion Theatre presents the play Oct. 29 and 30 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 31 at 2:30 p.m. at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall. Tickets are $10 General Admission, $8 Seniors and Students.

ADDITION: In the comments, my pal Stephen points out one I missed:

- Bram Stoker's Dracula - will be presented at Huntington High School at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and a special midnight show Friday night.

"Little Shop of Horrors" Photo Galleries

The Herald-Dispatch's web site has two photo galleries up with some photos from the rehearsals for this weekend's production of Little Shop of Horrors.

You can see one gallery here and the other one here.

The Pullman Plaza Playhouse production of Little Shop of Horrors is offered at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 29-30, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 5-6, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 7 at the Pullman Plaza Hotel. Tickets are $30 for dinner and the show. The show only is $15.

There will be a special performance at midnight Sunday, Oct. 31. The midnight show is $15 (show only).

Tickets are available for purchase online at www.pullmanplayhouse.webs.com, on the Facebook group "Pullman Plaza Playhouse,” at the front desk of the Pullman Plaza Hotel or by calling 304-525-1001.

On Stage This Weekend - "Hector's Warehouse"

My pal Mel sends along this information about Hector's Warehouse and Other Ghost Stories, which hits the stage this weekend in Charleston:

Just in time for Halloween, Contemporary Youth Arts Company presents Hector's Warehouse and Other Ghost Stories.

Directed by Dan Kehde, the show features six stories of suspense and the supernatural, inspired by true events. CYAC veterans Meredith Overcash, Craig Auge, Mandy Harper and Coleman Richardson make up the four-person cast.

Performances are Thursday, Oct. 28 at 8:15 p.m. (due to Trick or Treat night), Friday, Oct. 29 at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 30 at 8:00 p.m. and a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Oct. 31. All performances are at the WVSU Capitol Center Theater, located at 123 Capitol Street in Charleston.

Tickets are $5.50 for students and seniors, and $9.50 for adults. For more info, go to http://web.me.com/cyac2001.

If you love Paranormal State or Paranormal Activity or are just looking for some some Halloween fun, come get your scare on with CYAC!

On Stage This Weekend - "Little Shop of Horrors"

Taking the stage this weekend in Huntington is the second production by the newest theatre group in town, the Pullman Plaza Playhouse.

They're presenting a great show for Halloween, since it combines horror, music and comedy - the Little Shop of Horrors.

It's the story of a meek and mild guy who's in love but too shy to do anything about it - until he discovers an amazing plant that takes control of his life. It's fast, funny and features some great songs.

The show is directed by Shayne Gue and produced by Paul Neace and Deborah Wolfe. It stars Bradley Leonard, Jennifer Scott, Caleb Donahoe, David Vickers, Alissa Fetheroff, Gabrielle Gardner, Brittany Miller, Garrett Gaunch and Andrew Surber.

Showtimes at the Pullman Plaza Hotel in Huntington are Oct. 29 and 30 at 7:30 p.m., with a special midnight show Saturday night. It'll also be presented Nov. 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 7 at 2:00 p.m.

You can just see the show or enjoy a dinner before the show - call the hotel at 304-525-1001 for more details or to make reservations.

On Stage Monday - "Legally Blonde: The Musical"

The touring show of the Broadway hit show Legally Blonde: The Musical takes the stage Monday night at the Paramount Arts Center!

I've never seen the show in person, but I did catch the broadcast of the Broadway show on MTV, and (much to my surprise) I really enjoyed it! I wish I could catch this performance, but I can't be there. I strongly urge everyone out there to go - it's a fast-paced, very funny show with tons of energy.

Tickets are $45, $50, $55, $60. Assuming there are still tickets available, here's how to get 'em: Call the Box Office weekdays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 606-324-3175. You may also order tickets through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling Ticketmaster at 304-523-5757.

Here's the official description of the show:

This much fun shouldn’t be legal!

The Musical will take you from the sorority house to the halls of justice with Broadway's brightest new heroine (and of course, her Chihuahua, Bruiser). The verdict? This much fun shouldn't be legal! Sorority star Elle Woods doesn't take "no" for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her for someone “serious,” Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style.

Highly recommended!

Last Chance to Rope "Will Rogers"

Today is your last chance to catch Will Rogers Follies - the final show starts at 2 p.m. at the old Huntington High School at 900 8th Street.

The show chronicles the life of Will Rogers. The Will Rogers Follies opened on Broadway at the Palace Theater in 1991 where it ran for 981 performances. After the success of its Broadway run, the show moved onto many national tours.

The talented cast for the ARTS production is led by Bil Neal as Director, Leann Haines as Assistant Director, Produced by Harriett Evans, Choreographer by Kerri Easter-Stambaugh with Musical Direction by Tawny Burdine and Technical Direction from Shane Ross.

The famous role of Will Rogers is held by Stephen Vance. Jane Modlin stars as Betty Blake, with Jim Lamp as Clem Rogers, and Jocelyn Knapp as Zeigfeld's Favorite and in the roles of Rogers and Blakes’ children, Sam Smith as Will Jr., Hunter Easter as Freddy, Jacob Welch as James, and Shelby Easter as Mary.

The talented supporting cast includes Justin Carlson, Tom Ross, Jacob Benson, Remington McClure, Tera Grasser, Cindy Stowers, Andrea Runge, Abby Willis, Natasja VanDijk, Laura Ptakowski, Jillian Clark, Jordan Clark and Jon Lamp as Wiley Post.

The Will Rogers Follies is staged at the ARTS Renaissance Theater and is located at 900 8th St., formerly the old Huntington High School. Tickets are available by calling 304-733-ARTS (2787).

Ticket prices are $15 for adults. Children 12 and under, accompanied by a paying adult, will enjoy the show free of charge. For more information regarding the 2010 season line-up and ticketing, please visit the ARTS website at www.733arts.org.

Support Your Local Theatre and Enjoy Breakfast!

Here's a great chance to enjoy a good breakfast and support your local children's theatre at the same time - it's First Stage Theatre Company's Pancake Breakfast, and it takes place this Saturday morning at Applebee's at the Huntington Mall!

Here are the details:

Come support the Cast and Crew of Once Upon a Mattress at their pancake breakfast this Saturday.

First Stage Theatre Company’s Pancake Breakfast will be held Oct. 23, 2010 from 8 to 10 a.m. The event is sponsored and hosted by Applebee’s of Barboursville (at the Huntington Mall Location).

The cast will take on the role of waiter for one day only!

The cost of the pancake breakfast is only $5.00, and tickets may be purchased from a Once Upon a Mattress cast member or at the door.

The proceeds benefit First Stage Theatre Company’s November production of the musical comedy Once Upon a Mattress!

On Stage This Weekend - Five Shows!

There are quite a few great shows on stage this weekend - check 'em out:

- Will Rogers Follies - ARTS presents the musical comedy Oct. 22 and 23 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 24 at 2 p.m. at the Renaissance Center (the old Huntington High School).

- Nosferatu: The Vampire - ACTC presents the show Oct. 22 and 23 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 24 at 2:30 p.m. at the J.B. Sowards Theater.

- Superior Donuts - Charleston Stage Company presents the play Oct. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. at the Capitol Center Theatre.

- The Art of Murder - Kanawha Players presents the play Oct. 22 and 23 at 8 p.m. at the Kanawha Players Theatre.

- Clive Barker's Frankenstein in Love will be staged October 22-23 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 24 at 2:30 p.m. at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall. Tickets are $10 General Admission / $8 Seniors and Students.

A Fundraising Show for Hospice

If you're looking for a good cause to support, there are few (if any) better than Hospice of Huntington, which provides care and support to the gravely ill and their families.

The group provides a wonderful service for so many in our area, and some talented local performers are gathering together Nov. 6 at the Keith Albee Theatre to put on a special show to raise money for the group.

Details are still in the works, but I know it's going to be a terrific show for a fantastic cause, and I urge everyone out there to support it. Here's the poster with the details:

Red Lion Theatre's 2010-2011 Season

Continuing our look at the upcoming seasons for local community theatre groups, we turn now to the Red Lion Theatre Company based in Ashland.

Its season continues this weekend with a Halloween-based show:

- Clive Barker's Frankenstein in Love will be staged October 22-23 and 29-30 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 24 and 31 at 2:30 p.m. at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall. Tickets are $10 General Admission / $8 Seniors and Students.

- Nightmare Before Egos Out of Control Saves Christmas will be presented Dec. 9 - 12 at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall.

- Doubt - the drama will be staged March 4, 5 and 6 at the KYOVA Tri-State Mall.

Interviews with Actors from "Will Rogers Follies"

We've heard from the director and the title character, so now here are some comments from some of the actors who are appearing in the Will Rogers Follies this weekend and next at the old Huntington High School.

Here we have my pals Jane Modlin, who plays Betty Blake (that's her in the photo), and Jim Lamp, who plays Clem Rogers.

Here's what they had to say:

Q: For those who aren't familiar with the show, tell us about Will Rogers Follies.

Jim: The show tells the story of Will Rogers, America’s funny man in the '20s who never met a man he didn’t like.

Q: Tell us about your character in the show.

Jane: I play Betty Blake, Will's wife. She's an amazing woman - she was really his rock and kept him going. She was practically a single mom, since he was gone most of the time, and you have to admire her for that. He always knew she would be there for him when he came home. When the depression hits, she's the one who helps him find his inner strength. This isn't your typical 'boy meets girl' musical, with the predictable happy ending. These were real people who had a romance that lasted their lifetimes. They truly loved each other. Hopefully, Stephen Vance (who plays Will Rogers) and I bring that out.

Jim: I play Clem Rogers, Will’s father, a grouchy but lovable old coot who doesn’t understand Will’s wanderings from the family ranch in Oklahoma but ultimately sees Will for the special, unforgettable person he is. I liked this part because Clem has all the funny lines and grouchy but lovable is a good bit to play.

Q: Why did you want to be part of this show?

Jane: I didn't know the show until (director) Bil Neal called me! I wasn't sure I had enough hours in my day to fit in another production, but after reading the script, I couldn't resist it. Betty's songs are the best in the show. Plus, she's a great character. I really like *her*, not just who she is in the show.

Q: What's the most challenging thing about the show for you?

Jane: Other than the steps... the most challenging part has been finding time to learn everything (which is a cop-out, since Stephen has MUCH more to remember than I do). Honestly, the most challenging part is doing justice to Betty and Will and their romance.

Q: Why would you urge our readers to attend?

Jim: People should see this show because it is a throwback to the days of Vaudeville with great costumes, beautiful dancers and a truly endearing and important message – we are all in this together because we are all family.

Jane: Will Rogers Follies is a wonderful family show; for people who like musical theatre, it's an entertaining spectacle and a fun evening. For folks who aren't as big a fan of musicals, it's got gorgeous showgirls, adorable children, the incredibly talented Jim Lamp, and a folksy hero with whom they can identify. It really has something for everyone.

On Stage This Weekend - Four Shows

Several shows to choose from this weekend - one in Huntington, one in Ashland and two in Charleston!

Here's the rundown:

- Will Rogers Follies - ARTS presents the musical comedy Oct. 15 and 16 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Renaissance Center (the old Huntington High School).

- Nosferatu: The Vampire - ACTC presents the show Oct. 15 and 16 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 17 at 2:30 p.m. at the J.B. Sowards Theater.

- Superior Donuts - Charleston Stage Company presents the play Oct. 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Capitol Center Theatre.

- Alice in Wonderland - Children's Theatre of Charleston presents the classic play Oct. 15 at 7 p.m., Oct. 16 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Civic Center Little Theater.

Check 'em out and support your community theatre!

An Interview with the Director of "Will Rogers Follies"

Today our e-interview spotlight turns to the director of Will Rogers Follies, my pal Bil Neal.

It's a challenge to direct any show, much less a big musical extravaganza like this one. Here's what Bil had to say:

Q: For those who aren't familiar with the show, tell us about Will Rogers Follies.

A: Will Rogers starred in six different versions of the Follies for Florenz Zigfield during his lifetime. This is the story of Will's life, familial relationships, and death as told from a Zigfield stage in a series of vignettes and dance numbers. The dichotomy between the "normalcy" of his life and the production pieces is what caught my interest at first.

Q: This show recreates a different era. What challenges does that cause for you and the production team?

A: The costumes, naturally. It's pretty tough to dress showgirls appropriately from the '20s and '30s. Magic Makers really outdid themselves for us, pretty much allowed our costumer Terri Tagmeyer to live at their store.

Q: Tell us about the cast for the show.

A: Please! Stephen Vance is in his first Title Role. He's earned the right to all the applause the Tri-State can offer him for the next two weekends. He's worked harder than almost anyone in the cast, and added physical rope tricks, all while re-creating a genuine, three-dimensional historical figure. It's an honest portrayal of a very down-to-earth celebrity. It's a pleasure to follow him onstage in the course of the evening.
Jocelyn Clark is the biggest character on the stage. She makes playing Zigfield's Favorite showgirl look like the role of her lifetime. She's in every dance number, changes clothes (and accessories) more than anyone else, and does it with a smile on her face. Every performance finds her running a marathon in three-inch heels while singing. There's just no one else like her.
Jane Modlin brings intimacy and honesty to her role as Betty Rogers - Will's wife. She's a fixture in Tri-State theatre, and with good reason. My favorite aspect of working with her has been sitting back and just listening. She's got the best solos in the show, and I adore her tone and talent. What she does to a torch song is simply amazing.
Jim Lamp is pretty much a constant if I'm gonna do theatre. He makes the whole experience (on and off stage) a blast. His comedic timing is effortless, and in this show we all get to see the heart behind a pretty gruff character.
What could I possibly say about the Showgirls? Stunning? Disciplined? Amazing? Yes, all that and more. The time and devotion they've put into Will Rogers Follies is awesome to me.
The Cowboys own a special place in my heart. Such good men. The scene that features them had me laughing so hard in rehearsal last week that I almost... well, I laughed really really hard.
Jon Lamp has taken over the role of Wiley Post like Grant took Richmond. He literally stops the show.
Justin Carlson is making his Community Theatre debut as our Peter, the Stage Manager, beautifully. The depth he's brought to this character is charming and honest. I couldn't be more pleased for him.
Our four kids are probably the sweetest element of the show - singing, dancing, and getting a few punch lines in on their own.
This production also brings in a big back-stage cast of singers, techs and dressers. Talk about hard working - we've got it in spades.

Q: Why would you urge our readers to attend?

A: Chuck, you and I both know that right now there are a lot of options when it comes to seeing theatre in our area. I can only say this much - this show deserves to be seen. What Will said about the Depression of his era can certainly be related to in our current economy. Add that message to a combination of honest relationships with sweet, loving people and throw in every sparkly costume in our area. This show was written to have heart, and sweetness, and sparkle and fun. It was, somehow, written for the folks who've earned these roles. Their work ethic throughout this project has been overwhelming at times. I've never heard of any other cast setting their own additional rehearsal times just to polish things up so they could amaze me even more. Our Showgirls have done that weekly. The entire cast has worked impressively to produce a show worthy of having huge audiences. I'm so proud of them and what they've become that it humbles me (and a lot of your readers know how amazing that must be).

Q: Tell us when and where the show is staged, and how much the tickets cost.

A: We open October 15 and run for two weekends at the ARTS on Eighth Street. There are already limited Dinner and show combinations for $30 (we're serving brisket, cowboy beans, red potatoes and cobbler - reservations required). Show-only tickets are $15, and one child under 12 gets in free with any single paying adult for the show.