There were five performances altogether. The first, on Tuesday, was free for seniors, nursing home residents, disabled people, and special people from Participation House. This is a really enthusiastic audience, they love the show. They were joining in with the songs and those who were able were dancing in the aisles!
Then performances on Thursday, Friday, and two on Saturday.
About 150 volunteers are involved in the production.
It's a mix of music, dance and comedy, all performed by local people. I'm part of the chorus, and I try to be included in at least one dance number. This year it was The Hockey Dance.
This spring Variety Show has been running for 48 years, and used to be eagerly anticipated by everyone in town, with huge line-ups for tickets on show nights. But sadly, there's a lot more competition for the entertainment dollar these days, and it's hard to compete with movie theatres and TV shows like "Dancing with the Stars" and "Survivor". Plus it's hockey play-offs, even though the Leafs have already been knocked out of contention.
A group of my Red Hat ladies came to the show, and of course, my family were there, including 9 week old Callum, but many of my other friends and neighbours on the street didn't come, which I find a bit disappointing. Too bad, they missed a great show. However, our audiences were very responsive.... I could hear howls of laughter at the skits, and lots of loud applause after the song and dance numbers. I've heard nothing but praise for the show, it certainly was one of the best we have done. Proceeds will be donated to The Terry Fox Foundation.
Perhaps we'll see you in the front row next year?
I'm glad it was such a resounding success for you Ex-S. I know you put a lot of love into it. And that's a fine charity you've chosen. I'm happy for you that it worked out well. :)
ReplyDeleteWell done..!
ReplyDeleteYou appear to have as much fun doing it as the audience has watching it.
As you for you in the hockey dance, you look like you are just asking for a penalty..!
xx
Bravo my friend! That hockey picture is awesome!! But you all have your teeth!
ReplyDeleteSounds like lots of fun and for a very worth cause. Wish I could have been there.
ReplyDeleteI would be in the front row for a show like that, Ex-S! BTW, how old do you have to be to be a senior. Some places it's 50...or 55...or 60...or 65. Sometimes I make it and sometimes I don't. :) But I'm sure I would even pay for it!
ReplyDeleteYou all look like consummate professionals! I'm sure it was great. Don't dwell on those who didn't come; they missed a super evening, I"m sure.
ReplyDeletePlease do give me SIX WEEKS' notice for the next one, and I'll do my best to journey to the frozen north to watch it!!!
ReplyDeletep.s. i added an update to my ESL class blog.
i hope you had as much fun as it looks to be in the photos!
ReplyDeletethanks for visiting me at my blog..it was very nice of you!
That sounds like such a great show. I would definitely come to see you perform :)
ReplyDeleteWish I could have seen it. That looks like a hockey team that means business! Well done for putting on such a good show.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, I didn't see Manuel, but once or twice got served not quite what was requested by a waiter who could easily have been his cousin.
Sound like a good show was had by all.. and the ones that missed it.. well its their sad loss.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like the participants had a grand time. I think you are all terrific to give you time and talent to support a good charity.
ReplyDeleteDarla
I am glad it was a great success!
ReplyDeleteIt looks you all had a WONDERFUL time!
Wish I could have been there. I would have clapped like crazy. You put in a tremendous amount of work for a fine cause. I love your spirit.
ReplyDeleteLive shows are special, one can watch TV any old time. All that laughter and applause must have been heart-warming and what a great example you're setting for Baby Callum on so many levels. You've made me aware of The Terry Fox Foundation.
ReplyDeleteLooked like a great time to be had for all.
ReplyDeleteGlad to read the show went so well, my dear....AND, that you ALL had such a lot of fun. THAT'S the Best Part...! And for those that missed it? WELL....It's THEIR Loss!
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your comments.
ReplyDeleteYou are all correct, it's so much fun putting the show together, but it's certainly a lot of hard work and many evenings spent in rehearsals. It's also a great way to make new friends!
Mixed feelings once the show is over... relief that I can have my life back, and regret that Wednesday night rehearsals won't start again until January.
Mark your calendars for April 2009!