Talent showcase this weekend

At Stage West Community Playhouse, for this weekend only, an assortment of performers, all aged 50 and above, bring their own unique talent to the stage, as they stage the sixth annual Golden Revue, "The Gala Holiday Cruise." This holiday variety show offers a plethora of talent against the backdrop of a cruise ship. Kind of an all star holiday cruise entertainment show.

Terri Marwood has been instrumental in bringing the Golden Revue to the stage year after year, but she says it really is a collaboration that includes Lilly Marwood and Music Director, Carol Ballard. Marwood says the show is a wonderful platform for these multi-talented older community performers, as the first requirement for the audition is to be over 50 years of age. This year, The Golden Revue will feature contemporary musical selections as well as classical favorites from years gone by along with the beautiful holiday favorites we've come to know and love.

"We have a ton of talented performers in our community, and there just are not a lot of lead roles for people over age 50," said Marwood. "Many of the big shows are written for younger actors. This is one vehicle that allows our older performers to shine, where they have the opportunity to showcase their voice with a solo, or perform in a big dance number."

Chris Fickley serves as the Master of Ceremonies, and Marwood is quick to point out that he is the only cast member not over 50. Several local dance groups will be featured in the revue this year, including "The Jazz Kats," and "The Jesters" from Timber Pines. Marwood is introducing a new dance group, "The Stage West Follie Dollies," and judging from her chuckles, it should be a stitch. Expect to see Stage West favorites such as Leanne Germann, Dalton Benson, Judy Jones, Shirley Button, Karen Doxey, Linda Campo, Eileen Orieo, and Cheryl Roberts, and about 25 additional cast members.

There will also be some audience participation and even a sing along to "Puff the Magic Dragon." Doxey will reprise her beautiful rendition of "Ave Maria," complete with a candlelight processional. Dalton Benson sings Elvis's "Blue Christmas." Vin Cloonan dons a tuxedo and brings us a little Dean Martin magic with "Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime," and "Do You Hear What I Hear." Alan Vorhees will be doing his Bobby Darin rendition of "Mack the Knife." Linda Campo brings us the sweet holiday number, "Merry Christmas Darling," and "Someone to Watch Over Me."

But this isn't all about music and dance. Cheryl Roberts does a great Lucille Ball tribute and Jim Hansen has put together a Karnak routine from the Johnny Carson show. "It's just a great mixture of wonderful entertainment - a total variety show," said Marwood. Audiences may remember the hilarious antics of the "Bad Girls." Marwood promises more fun this year with the debut of the "Bad Boys."

The Golden Revue, "The Gala Holiday Cruise!" runs this weekend only. Friday and Saturday performances begin at 8 p.m. and the Sunday matinee is at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10. Stop by the box office at 8390 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill, one hour prior to show time, or on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or call the box office at 683-5113 to reserve your tickets.