By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
Circle Theatre continues its summer programming with two upcoming July performances, including its first indoor production since the COVID pandemic.
On Tuesday, July 12, the company will host its Second Annual Circle Summer Fundraising Concert at 7 p.m. on the lawn at the Aquinas College’s Performing Arts Center, 1703 Robinson Rd. SE.
Lisa Knight will be joined by Michelle Covington and Deb Alexander as they pay tribute to the ladies of soul. From Tina Turner and Chaka Khan to Donna Summer, Whitney Houston and more.
According to Circle Theatre officials, the organization is elated to be back for its 2021 season after having been dark the past year. The extended intermission has left Circle Theater with the goal of raising $150,000 to continue covering ongoing costs as the company works to bring live theatre back to West Michigan. So far, the organization has raised about $50,000 of its goal.
Tickets for the Circle Summer Fundraising Concert are $25 each. Participants are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and beach chairs. KJ Catering will be offering picnic options.
‘Life is Cabaret, Old Chum’
Circle Theatre continues its 69th season with its first indoor production, the 12-time Tony Award wining production, “Cabaret,” July 15 – 31, at Aquinas College Center of Performing Arts, 1703 Robinson Rd. SE.
“The amazing talent involved in this production will have you engaged and entertained as this classic musical is presented through a new lens,” said Director Will Gearring.
Gearring has intentionally cast to re-envision the popular production and to tell the story of “Cabaret” and the history of 1930s Germany through minority voices – voices of those whose stories have yet to be told. Through his research, Gearring weaves the history of minority voices during the Nazi takeover of Germany in the 1930s and 1940s through the show. Audiences can expect an emersive and eye-opening experience at each performance.
“Cabaret” is the story of American writer Cliff Bradshaw and his relationship with cabaret performer Sally Bowles set against 1931 Berlin as the Nazis are rising to power. Set in the seedy Kit Kat Klub, the action is overseen by the Master of Ceremonies who welcomes the audiences and assures them they will forget all their troubles at the Cabaret.
“Our cast bring some small elements the really retell the story in a new way,” said Jaelyn Raiford who portrays Sally Bowles. “In addition, I have gotten to watch each and every performer come with high energy and make this show a stunning and exciting piece of work.
“Every person who joins us in telling this story will see a dramatic love story speckled with comedic characters, eye-catching dance numbers, and social commentary.”
Shows are at 7:30 p.m. with a 3 p.m. Sunday, July 25. Tickets for both shows are available at circletheatre.org or call 616-456-6656.
