Franco Center presents “Bandstand to Billboard”
The widely-acclaimed show “From Bandstand to Billboard,” a fun and sometimes romantic collection of 1950s, 60s and 70s hits from Billboard Magazine and American Bandstand, will make a local appearance at the Gendron Franco Center on Saturday, February 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Presented by the cast of last summer’s popular musical revue at Poland Spring Inn and last year’s “Welcome to the Sixties” show at the Franco Center, Bandstand to Billboard will feature local singers and actors Renee Mahon Davis, Eileen M. Messina, Kay Warren, Gerry Therrien and Michael James Litchfield. The singers will be accompanied by a big band orchestra under the direction of pianist Paul G. Caron and featuring Michael French on guitar and vocals, Patrick Buzza on bass, Jeremy Turner on drums, Michael Plossay and Michael Truchon on trumpet, Bruce Theriault on trombone, and acclaimed musician Blaise Spath on reeds. The ensemble includes some of Community Little Theatre’s most talented performers who collectively have appeared in scores of productions.
The theme of the show is “Doo-Wop to Disco.” “As the country went through major changes in this time period, we looked towards music and entertainment to see us through,” said Mitchell Clyde Thomas, the Center’s executive director and announcer for the show. “Big Bands and vocalists gave way to Rock ‘n Roll and the Golden Age of Country, Folk, Psychedelic Rock, and the rise and fall of Disco. We are so happy to welcome back this talented ensemble for a night of great entertainment.”
Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors 60+. Students will be admitted free of charge. The Dolard and Priscilla Gendron Franco Center is wheelchair accessible. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 689-2000, visit the Box Office Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m., or see www.francocenter.org.