The Geritol Follies http://www.geritolfollies.ca/ just got back from a couple of shows at the Stephen Leacock Theatre in Keswick, Ontario. Interesting stage setup- it puts the performers almost at eye level with a lot of the audience and the thrust stage http://theater.about.com/od/actorsinformation/ss/theaters_5.htm makes entrances and exits challenging for such a large scale show. We were debuting The Follies’ new production,
The Times of Our Lives. Judging by the enthusiastic reception of the audience, it’s a hit! Here’s the basic premise-
Frances, is an older women- attractive, full of life, and, sadly, a widow. She’s lonely and does her best to keep active. She joins a local theatre group, meets a guy and falls in love. They decide to marry.
Annie is a younger woman- attractive, full of life, and, sadly, a little straight-laced…and she doesn’t yet know that her grandmother is going to get married again. That’s where the show begins and the fun starts. For a preview article by Gary Smith,
click here-
http://www.thespec.com/Entertainment/article/367532
As Annie and Frances try to come to terms with each other’s expectations, the Follies cast of 100 tell their story through singing, dancing, and comedy. For instance, Annie asks Frances to tell her about this new guy, and the cast sings that classic Rodgers & Hart tune, Bewitched. http://www.nodanw.com/biographies/rodgers_hart.htm
Frances confesses that she didn’t always go to her Ladies Auxiliary Meeting on Thursday nights. It was always a Ladies Night, but…that’s when 10 Follies men dancers come strutting on stage to Hot Stuff, dressed (somewhat) as Chippendales. http://www.chippendales.com/
You get the idea. This show is moving, exciting, beautiful, inspiring, but mostly, it’s a LOT OF FUN.
Our next stop is Kitchener’s Centre in the Square, a beautiful theatre, on May 15
http://www.centre-square.com and, in September, Stage West Dinner Theatre in Mississauga. http://www.stagewest.com/
But you can see it right here at the Follies’ homebase, Hamilton Place. That’s where The Times of Our Lives is playing May 28, 29, and 30 for 4 shows. You can call 905 528-8095 or go to
http://www.ticketmaster.ca/artist/1195966
Okay, I have to say it- You’ll have the times of your lives at
The Times of Our Lives.
