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Tri-State Theater

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Saturday, March 14, 2020

"Follies" Interview with Becky McClellan


   You have (at this writing) one more chance to catch the musical Follies in Huntington, and we have one more interview with the cast to share.

   Stepping up to our e-microphone is the lovely and talented Becky McClelland, who plays the part of Emily Whitman:

Q: What is Follies about?

Becky: Follies is a reunion of showgirls who have been out of the business for 30 or more years. Once there they get to perform old numbers while pairing up with ghosts of their past. Some characters are much more affected by the ghosts of their past than others. 

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

Becky: I love a good musical and Sondheim writes the best ones! I also knew that our director Bil Neal loves flashy costumes and this show is absolutely designed for them! 

Q: Tell us about the character you play.

Becky: My character is Emily Whitman. She is a former Weisman Girl who teaches dance with her husband in her older years. She’s sweet and always ready for fun, but she’s kind of a ditz. 

Q: What's your background in theatre?

Becky: I ventured into the world of theater in 2014 after my kids grew up. Since then I’ve been a part of about 15 shows whether on stage or behind the scenes. 

Q: This is Alchemy’s first musical production - what’s more challenging, the singing or the dancing?

Becky: The dancing. Hands down. I’ve never tapped and there is a big tap number. Add to that the part where I’m supposed to be a dance instructor! It’s a really good thing my ghost is amazing!

Q: Do you have a favorite number in the show?

Becky: I absolutely love “I’m Still Here” performed by Mary Olson. She is always first rate, but in this case she takes you through her entire career bringing you through a range of emotions. It’s incredible!

Q: Why would you recommend this show to our readers?

Becky: This show is by design a reunion of veteran performers. Bil has pulled together some of the Huntington area’s very best; some of whom you haven’t seen on stage in years. Add to that the younger ghosts who are new to our company and SHOWGIRLS! And who doesn’t love showgirls?

  Thanks, Becky!


   Follies - the musical will be presented by Alchemy Theatre on Saturday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. at The Janice Chandler Auditorium (The Cabell County Board of Education Building) at 2850 5th Avenue in Huntington. Tickets are $15 each.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Becky Tippett McClelland, you are a natural at acting. I know because I am your Ol’ Pap. And Pap has watched you grow personally and professionally for more moons than we both care to admit. It is a blessing to me when I watch you transform into the roles I’ve seen you perform. Cindy and I are so very proud of you. Keep growing, you are just getting warmed up. We love you. Pap