ESTEVAN - The Souris Valley Theatre has unveiled its 2024 summer schedule for Frehlick Hall, with performances that are expected to entertain audiences of all ages.
Two main stage productions and two one-night shows will be presented, each offering a blend of music, drama and entertainment.
“All of us at the Souris Valley Theatre are incredibly excited about the upcoming season,” said board president Allison Holzer. “We’ve put together a lineup that celebrates both nostalgia and fresh interpretations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We can’t wait to welcome our community back for a summer of unforgettable performances.”
Greased will be performed from July 8-12 and 15-19, with performances at 7:30 p.m. A 2 p.m. matinee will be on July 11. The production is set at Estevan High in 1959, and boasts a variety of music from rock and roll's golden era.
It is described as a "respectable homage" to the famed musical and movie Grease, but with a twist.
"In our version Sandy is a young man, new to Estevan, and Danni is the leader of the T-Birdies, the tough drag-racing gang. There is something magical about the music from this era and with so many classic hits to choose from, it was a real joy to put together," the theatre said in a news release.
For those who remember all these songs, the theatre hopes they enjoy the journey back, while introducing the genre to others.
Jailhouse Rock will run from Aug. 5-9 and 12-16. Set at the Estevan Correctional Centre, the musical's protagonist is John Storm, one of the finest guitar craftsmen around. Known as “the Guitar Doctor”, many musical stars loved his work and the man himself.
"When it came to fixing guitars, Doc was amazing; when it came to paying his taxes, he was terrible. When old friend Johnny Cash heard Doc was in jail for delinquent taxes, he called Elvis and they came up with a plan to repay the debt and get Doc off the hook," states the summary for the musical.
"They decided to throw a benefit concert right in the Estevan Jail and some amazing friends join in to help out. Friends like Grace Slick, Johnny Rivers, Nancy Sinatra, Dusty Springfield, Eric Burdon, Jerry Lee Lewis, June Carter, Roy Orbison and Bobbi Gentry.
"With this amazing line-up, everyone wants to see the show, especially two crazed Elvis fans who cook up a crazy plan to get into the jail to see their hero."
Performances will be at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Aug. 8.
As for the touring shows, Rory Allen will bring his Tribute to the King production on July 4 at 7:30 p.m. Known for his authentic vocals and stunning costumes, Allen has performed his Presley show with the Regina Symphony Orchestra and Presley’s Imperials quartet.
Allen continues to win hearts with his renditions of rock-and-roll classics, ballads and gospel songs.
The Szakacs Family will perform on Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m. A large gospel group based out of Carnduff, the family's journeys have taken them across Canada. The family’s presentation is a sensitive and lively blend of vocals and collective instrumentation.
Together, Curtis and Bonnie Szakacs and their eight children share their Christian faith while performing. Their creative ability to write and arrange in a broad variety of musical styles makes for a skillfully surprising musical experience. They have released seven albums.
