Show goes swingin' back to the 40's
By the Editorial Staff
The audience at The 1940s Radio Swing Dance being presented by IVCCs music department will be transported back to the era of USO shows, not just as spectators, but as participants.
The program, set for Dec. 7 at the Oglesby Elks, is a mix of classic radio routines, including advertising, music and swing dancing. Not only will the performers be in costume, the audience is being encouraged to join into the spirit of the show by also dressing from the 1940s.
"It's going to be fun," said director Norm Engstrom. "The whole idea is to have a fun evening, to dance to your hearts content and be entertained."
The Swing Band, under the direction of Mike Pecharek, will provide the dance music. Providing vocal music will be the Choir, under the direction of Engstrom.
Radio comedy and mystery routines will alternate with dancing segments throughout the two and a half hour evening, recreating the atmosphere of a live broadcast from a ballroom.
Among the shows being included, all from tapes of actual programs, are "Our Miss Brooks," "The Pinkerton Man," and "Fibber, Magee and Molly."
Engstrom explained that "The Pinkerton Man" was a detective story "introducing psychology into criminology."
The segment from the "Fibber, Magee and Molly" show is a routine with Fibber, Magee and Sis that Engstrom described as "a cute little scene about Thanksgiving."
The show will begin at 7:30 p.m., but a swing dance class will be offered before the show to start at a time to be announced.
Tickets, priced at $15 for an individual and $20 for a couple, are available in the bookstore. The ticket price includes admission to the show and the dance class. Appetizers will be served during the evening. A cash bar will be available.
Last December, the music and theatre departments presented IVCCs first 1940s Radio Swing Show at the Hotel Kaskaskia in LaSalle. Although this year's show is similar to last year's, the music and skits are different.
Engstrom is in his first year at IVCC, but he has previous experience directing radio-dance shows.