Hurricane Valley Theatrical Company presents “The Taffetas”
By Jennifer Roberts
Most of us remember our parents singing along with the very songs featured in Rick Lewis’ The Taffetas, those pop chart hits that made toes tap and could even inspire our parents to start swing dancing around the kitchen. It was a time of Ed Sullivan, The Hit Parade, big hair, sweater sets, poodle skirts, saddle shoes, and the local malt shop.
This nostalgic musical revue of 1950s pop chart favorites features an all-girl group called The Taffetas. The four girls are sisters out of Muncie, Indiana and are making their television debut on the fictional show “Spotlight on Music.” Their hope is one that so many small-town talents hoped — that Ed Sullivan is watching and will offer them a spot on his show, thus launching their career. The entire show is their act, and although the goal is to get on Ed Sullivan, you get the feeling that they might be just as happy taking the bus back to Muncie.
The Taffetas pay tribute to the vocal stylings of the Fontaine Sisters, the McGuire Sisters, and the Chordettes. These include favorites like “Mr. Sandman,” “You Belong to Me,” “Where the Boys Are,” “Johnny Angel,” and much, much more — about 40 songs are packed into the show with many of them blended into medleys.
Expect the tightest four-part harmonies you’ve ever heard along with duets and solos from the girls, each a vocal powerhouse in her own right. The girls bring their own brand of humor and genuine likeableness that is guaranteed to win you over. How could Ed not give these girls a spot on his show? Buckle up for an evening of nostalgia and feel-good entertainment with “The Taffetas” — a musical journey through the fabulous ‘50s.
Kaye is played by McKenzie Morgan, Peggy is played by Janessa Judkins, Cheryl is played by Makayla Nelson, and Donna is played by Grace Wells. The show is directed by Kyle Myrick with musical direction by Grace Palfreyman and choreography and costuming by Sammy Myrick. “The Taffetas” runs Fridays, Saturday, and Mondays April 12–May 4 at the newly renovated Hurricane Fine Arts Center. Tickets can be purchased at hurricanetheatrical.com or by calling (435) 668-9753.
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