The Covid-19 virus has changed our lives. Since last March, when the theaters closed, my nights have been filled with “Netflix”, HBO, SHO and movies of choice. Slowly, as we started to move through time, some of the theater companies began to be creative. Zoom is a great way for people to meet and greet. Companies have used it for sales presentations. Lawyers for depositions and theater people have been using Facebook and Zoom to reach out and continue to hone their talents.
American Blues Theater has truly used this period to do “their thing”! First of all, doing their wonderful “It’s A Wonderful Life” using ZOOM. The actors were in their own homes and the viewers were able to experience the show on a different level. At the same time, they began a series called “The Room” with some wonderful readings. Now, they have added a musical series, called “The Garage” and for their first presentation, “Dead Ringer” which will feature the musical talent of their ensemble members. We all know that Michael Mahler and Dara Cameron are members of this company, so I anticipate, they will have a show very soon.
To begin, they utilized the talent of Artistic Affiliate Zachary Stevenson, who many might recall sold out the theater’s production of “The Buddy Holly Story” ( winning a Jeff Award). He has an amazing ability to become a “dead ringer” for Holly and does a great job doing Phil Ochs, Hank Williams and Jerry Lee Lewis. By the way, in last night’s show ( this was a one time concert enjoyed by a “full computer” from all over the globe, he even snuck in a little BeeGees when he spoke about the Disco Era.
The show was supposed ot be one hour, but ended up being twenty minutes more, and I would day that the audience would have gone another hour with no problem. Zach is an amazing talent . Songs like “Peggy Sue”, “Maybe Baby”, “Everyday”, When I Die”, “Hey Good Lookin'”, “Your Cheating Heart”, Great Balls of Fire”, When I’m Gone, When I’m Here” along with his stories of being raised on Canada and his seeing that he was destined to do what he does make you feel as if you have a new buddy. Oh, yeah! You do. Zach is an amazing talent and I am in hopes that the American Blues Theater company recorded this event and will make it available for even more to see.
Coming up as show number two in “The Garage ” series, “Valentunes” Friday, February 12th at 7 p.m. featuring the talents of Audrey Billings, Matthew Brumlow, Dara Cameron, Austin Cook, Ian Custer, Cisco Lopez, Michael Mahler, Camille Robinson,Denzel Tsopnang, Zachery Stevensen and Adrienne Walker. What a talent line-up.
Cost for “Valentunes” is $50 ( per computer) This will be a sell-out, so RUSH to www.AmericanBluesTheater.com or call 773-654-3103
By the way, after the show, you can turn on your mike and camera and be a part of the fun! Enjoy! I know I did!
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