Once again the Tyrone Community Theater is offering a summer dinner theater at the Citizen’s Fire Hall.
Slated for August 9th and 10th, this years offering is “Taffeta Memories,” a musical review of the ‘50s.
Sung by the Taffetas, a four sister group from Muncie, Indiana. The songs include “Mr. Sandman,” “The Three Bells,” and “Mockin’ Bird Hill, among others.
Directed by Karen Mayhew, the Taffetas are sometimes referred to as a female “Forever Plaid,” which Mayhew also directed last year for Tyrone Community Theater. In rehearsal for over two months, the cast consists of Lynne Dirkse as Peggy, Kathy Fink as Donna, Mary Ann Kurtz as Cheryl Rose, and Darcy Wilson as Kaye. Joanne Hedberg is in the show as Mabel, Steve Helsel plays the piano, and Nancy Sloss is the Stage Manager
The cast has a variety of musical experience, from Church Choirs to stage performances. The cast has enjoyed learning and practicing the music of the ‘50s. “This is from my day,” said Mary Ann Kurtz, “the music, the clothes….the stars!”
Although Lynne Dirkse is a bit younger, she is also enthusiastic. “I’ve always felt that I’m a 50s kind of girl,” she stated, ” even though I was raised in the ‘80s.”
Wilson is also enjoying the ‘50s feeling: “In my costume I feel like one of those ladies in a movie with Rock Hudson, riding in a convertible and singing love songs.”
For Fink, the 50s feelings are there, but she looks at the show a little differently. “Theater has always been my therapy. You know, that something just for me. The singing is what I love but the friendships that have formed are the real benefit from being involved.”
The Players would love to see more community members involved. Auditions for the next show, “Sherwood,” are August 16, 17, and 18 at 7 p.m. in the YMCA theater. TCP is also looking for the behind the scenes people, to help with costumes and sets. Requests for tickets, or questions about upcoming events, can be answered at 684-ART2.
