MARION — Palace Theatre Executive Director Kirk Detweiler is pleased to announce the theatre’s 94th season will open with local production of “The Will Rogers Follies” directed by Clare Cooke on July 9, 10, and July 15, 16, 17, 2022.
Detweiler shares, “As Covid-19 really threw a wrench in hosting live performances the past couple of years, we are happy to open our 2022-2023 with this show. We decided to go big or go home so we are thrilled to open the new Palace season with a spectacular show like “The Will Rogers Follies.”
Cooke will hold auditions for the upcoming summer production on Saturday, May 14, 2022. Children ages 8 to 11 are invited to audition from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. while adults age 15 and up along with dancers may audition from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The 1991 Tony Award-Winning musical boasts gorgeous costumes, toe-tapping music, and fantastic choreography. Presented in the style of a Ziegfeld Follies revue, the show celebrates American folk hero Will Rogers and his story of making the world a better place than before he entered it. The tale captures his accomplishments, philosophies of respect and confidence in his fellow man’s goodness, and many talents. Winner of six Tony Awards in 1991, the show’s buoyant score by Cy Coleman, with lyrics by Comden & Green, includes “Will-a-Mania,” “Our Favorite Son,” “My Unknown Someone,” and “Give A Man Enough Rope.”
Those interested in principal and chorus roles are asked to come prepared to sing a one-minute Broadway-style audition tune. A pianist will be provided. No CDs, please. Those auditioning for lead and supporting roles should also be prepared to read from the script. Adult participants wanting a non-singing dance role may audition from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. All auditioners should come dressed in casual clothing and shoes appropriate for performing choreography. A casting breakdown is posted online at marionpalace.org/auditions.
Ticket prices for “The Will Rogers Follies” are $50 for Patrons, $31, $21 for adults, and $15 for children 12 and under. Patrons purchasing a $50 ticket will enjoy premium seating during the show and an invitation to the patron party on opening night. Palace Cultural Arts Association (PCAA) members may purchase tickets beginning Monday, May 9. Non-members may purchase $50 patron tickets on Monday, May 16, and regular-priced tickets beginning Monday, June 6 at 9 a.m.
For more information, please contact the Palace box office at 740-383-2101 or visit the Palace website at www.marionpalace.org. The box office is located at 270 W. Center St. in downtown Marion. Box office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and closed Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.
