Story by Darl DeVault, contributing editor
This year’s Oklahoma Senior Follies production of annual Ziegfeld-style variety shows by and for seniors shared its vision, introduced its performers, and highlighted the high energy for its June 6-7 spectaculars.
“The Senior Follies dazzle in a Ziegfeld-style extravaganza you won’t forget!” said Rosinna Gies, marketing director. “From the very first note of ‘Give My Regards to Broadway’ to a high-energy finale featuring an electrifying excerpt from Grease, this show is packed with sparkle, nostalgic show-stopping talent.”
This show celebrates aging as a period of creative vibrancy, emphasizing community participation and shared joy for seniors and supporters.
The performances at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6, and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 7, at UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre, help fund vital Alzheimer’s Association programs, giving attendees a chance to make a difference.
The cast and performance style will be Follies-style, plotless revue, emphasizing atmosphere over plot. The performance will focus on creating “theatrical excitement” and an immersive experience of Broadway’s glamour to kick off the evening’s performances.
This year, applying a Ziegfeld Follies slant to “Give My Regards to Broadway” transforms the energetic George M. Cohan tune into a lavish, high-class spectacle centered on visual opulence. Unlike the original’s scrappy “song-and-dance” feel, a Ziegfeld-style rendition prioritizes “glorifying” the setting through staging and visual spectacle.
The song will be staged as a tribute emphasizing the modernity and pulsing energy of early 20th-century New York.
The “Follies Beauties” are a centerpiece of the show. These women are community leaders who parade across the stage in custom-designed, spectacular gowns adorned with sequins and crystals.
With all performers aged 50 and older, under the direction of Gina Bramlett and Michael Pone, with Matthew Jones, Ph.D., as music director, the shows feature senior acts and the “Follies Beauties” in choreographed numbers, accompanied by live music.
The Beauty’s presence allows Ziegfeld’s revues of ambiance to feature statuesque showgirls in elaborate, elegant poses. A hallmark of the Follies, the “Ziegfeld Girls” would likely have paraded down massive, elaborate staircases. Instead, the Follies Beauties make their presence known throughout the performance.
Beyond comedy sketches, the show’s central idea is to perform high-energy, synchronized kick lines and tap routines during the upbeat choruses.
Costumes are often the centerpiece, valued more than the choreography itself: The performers will wear extravagant headpieces and outfits that embody the New York Broadway mentioned in the lyrics.
“Along the way, kick up your heels with a lively four-song country line dance number that will have you clapping, stomping, and smiling from ear to ear!” Gies said. “You may even want to get up and dance along. We will also have a number called “One Hit Wonders,” songs that made an impact by different artists.”
Feathers, sequins, big smiles, and even bigger performances—this is classic showbiz with a spirited twist. They will also feature songs where the audience can sing along.
The Beauties this year are Tammy Weiss, Lisa Synar, Marie Burns, Marti Rickman, and Kesha Lashay Bell.
The full cast list is rounded out by Brick Koebrick, Byron Foley, Darrin Hackney, DeWayne McAnally, Fred Mears, Jackie Short, Jerri Hargis, Jerry Bowser and Jim Ivins. Jim Sesock, Kris Blair, Mart Rickman, Mary Nell Brueggan, Mitchell Williams, Pam Holzberger, Robert Davis, Rosinna Gies, Sam Koebrick, Tom Freeman, DeeDee Devore, Marie Burns, Kim Reed, Shannon Mick, Shari Clanin and Joe D Lee.
Experience the magic, music, and memories at the Oklahoma Senior Follies on June 6 and 7. Proceeds support Alzheimer’s education and research. Tickets are available at OKSeniorFollies.org. Reserve early and help them make a difference in our community.
The event accepts direct donations for Alzheimer’s and sells ads for the commemorative printed program. Many patrons purchase memorial ads for loved ones who have been impacted by Alzheimer’s.
