Mendon Showboat returns 'USO Style'
The two-year wait was worth it, as opening night of the 64th Mendon Kiwanis Showboat picked up Thursday where it left off in 2019.
A solid theme, strong voices, familiar tunes and just enough humor comprised the two-hour show. A crowd of more than 60 people expressed their gratitude, welcoming back the long-standing event that took a pass a year ago for COVID-related precautions.
Working off the theme, “Thanks for the Memories … USO Style,” the 2021 Showboat got off to a strong and enthusiastic start. The 26-member cast performed a medley of anthems of the USA’s military branches.
Master of ceremonies John Shango, a Colon-based magician, provided moments of levity, but the traditional, folksy, comedic bits by and between cast members were sparse compared to previous Showboats.
Not to disappoint, however, longtime Showboat participant Dale Eickhoff elicited howls of laughter with a humorous routine. Eickhoff tried, and failed miserably, at performing a number of magic acts of his own.
Eickhoff’s penultimate routine of the First Act was worth the price of admission.
Musical pieces showcased throughout the evening included “The Impossible Dream,” by Larry Higgins, Lorraine Anderson performing “God Bless America,” and the chorus singing “Beach Baby,” which also featured a lighthearted cameo by Eickhoff.
Second Act highlights included “Singing in the Rain,” by Sheri Munn, crowd-favorite “Sweet Caroline,” by Jim Jones, and “Happy Together,” by the chorus.
The 2021 Showboat concludes Saturday night. Showtime is 7 p.m. at Mendon Elementary. Tickets are $10 and available at the door.
All proceeds benefit the Mendon Kiwanis, which supports local scholarships and other local groups.
This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: Entertainment
