MLT's “1940's Radio Hour” to beam from Coleman Theatre stage
by Mark Rogers
Area theater-goers are in for a treat this week as Miami Little Theatre presents the comedy musical “1940's Radio Hour.” This crowd-pleasing production premiers Thursday, Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Coleman Theatre, downtown Miami.
Directed by MLT veteran Judy Pitman, the play is chock full of sentimental 1040s music and dancing.
The plot involves a struggling New York radio station, broadcasting a special radio program for the World War II troops overseas. It's the station's final holiday broadcast of the Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade.
Among the eclectic cast of characters are the ulcer-ridden announcer and general manager, a bubble-headed waitress turned singer, a crotchety stage-hand, and the 'old show standard' Dinah Shore-like singer who's a secretary by day.
Familiar tunes include “Blue Moon,” “Chiquita Banana,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “I Got it Bad,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and many more.
“I am really excited about this show,” stated Pitman. “I love the nostalgic music that I remember so fondly from the past. And this cast is the most professional group of amateurs I've worked with. They're wonderful!”
The magnificent Coleman Theatre stage will provide the ideal backdrop for this delightful production. The show will also be performed Friday and Saturday evening with a final Sunday matinee performance at 2:30 p.m.
Assisting Pitman with the production are assistant director Linda Kerby and choreographer Lee Dell Mustain.
The cast includes (by order of appearance) Pamela Catt, Kenneth Blalock, Steven McCurley, Nedra Roye, Michael Rarick, Chad Jarvis, Charlie Rarick, Lee Jackson, Ashlyn Bashore, Brent Ford, Elaine Rarick, Amanda Cole, John Gray, Karen Vanover and Britney Davis.
This is the second offering of MLT's 53rd season. Adult tickets are $13. Senior and student tickets are $10. Tickets may be purchased at the door or reserved in advance by calling the Coleman Theatre box office at 918-540-2425.
