For the Jimplecute
“Alexander’s Ragtime Band and Saloon Show” will be presented in one performance only, Saturday, July 2, in the historical Union Missionary Baptist Church on Houston Street beginning 7:30 p.m.
According to an Opera House Theatre Players (OHTP) spokesperson, the performances were originally scheduled for another performance on Sunday but the cast has been hit with illnesses and at least one unfortunately could not make the date.
The musical revue is a showcase of home-grown talent as well as talent from other areas of the state and include, local Tom Moss on the accordion; Charles Gilbert who will play ragtime tunes on the keyboard and accompany Ann Leslie, board member and regular performer with the Players featuring songs of the ragtime period; Sara Davis, board member and performer in many productions who will present her version of teens to 20s icon Sophie Tucker on stage.
Young Riley Cox of Hallsville who has been in many talent shows and performances with will play several popular ragtime pieces on the keyboard as well as sing and play the guitar; Jane Maddox of Austin, a semi-professional performer who is also a board member who has brought her “Marilyn Monroe” show to the city several times; and Wayne Thompson, local pianist who has worked a few times with the Players within the last 30 years and who is a natural.
“It is going to be a delightful musical revue that will have everybody in the audience tapping their toes,” Marcia Thomas said. “And it is a small miracle that we have been able to pull it off since COVID has reared its head again and canceled out several performers. Looks like this virus is going to hang around forever everywhere.”
Thomas, who is directing and is also Mistress of Ceremonies will introduce the acts and give a little history of the ragtime period.
Tickets are $15 adult and $10 child under 12 are on sale now at www.JeffersonOperaHouseTheatrePlayers.com and will likely be available at the door which will be open by 7 p.m.