Radio and the big band era are a comfortable married couple. Travel back to the 1940’s, when the Second World War was raging and eyes and ears were focused on keeping up the morale of the troops, both men and women, who were serving to secure democracy. Enter one of the many USO canteens established for soldiers and civilians to meet and socialize, and discover the entertainers who used musical joy to combat war’s chaos.
Ivoryton Playhouse will be energetically entertaining you and the troops until Sunday, June 9 as you glory in the past with such tunes as “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “I’ll Be Seeing You,” “The Rocking Horse Ran Away,” “Don’t Fence Me In,” and “How High the Moon” and many others. With a book by Linda Thorsen Bond, William Repicci and Charles Busch, you’ll be in nostalgia heaven as you enjoy a bevy of songs where you know all the words, can hum or sing along and understand all the lyrics.
With Memorial Day just around the corner, “Swingtime Canteen” is a patriotic play all clad in red, white and blue, a gift to our military and the continued need to protect our freedoms and guarantee our liberty. Come meet the terrific all girl band, dressed in our flag’s colors, led by a fading Hollywood star and mistress of ceremonies Marian Ames, a dynamic Marcy McGuigan, and her troupe of singers and instrumentalists Katie Barton, Kim Bonsanti, Jordan Brint, Mallory Kokus, Claire Marie Spencer, Claire-Frances Sullivan and Caitlin Witty.
With great enthusiasm, these giving and generous gals risk their own personal safety to entertain the troops, to thank them for their dedicated service to their country. Now in London, and planning a series of visits to military bases, they give their best to support the war effort, even if it means putting their own lives in danger. Each of them has a brother, uncle, boy friend, sister, aunt, or husband who is actively guaranteeing a better life by defeating our enemies and defending our shores. Amy Jones directs, choreographs and musically directs this inspiring production.
For tickets ($60 adults, $55 seniors, $25 students), call the Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main Street, Ivoryton at 860-767-7318 or online at ivorytonplayhouse.org. Performances are Wednesday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., with an additional matinee at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 24 and Tuesday, June 4.
Take a sensational sentimental journey with these awesome entertainers who salute our soldiers and their bravery and courage.