The Fourth of July may be over, but the summertime heat is still going strong. As a result, some people are looking for ways to beat the temperatures and feel cooler. Those may include swimming, boating, canoeing, or any other water-based activity.
But, if you are looking for something to do besides staying cooler while outdoors, may I suggest the Cumberland County Playhouse?
There are at least four plays you can watch this summer while sitting in the brand-new Playhouse seats and in the air conditioning. While you are there, may I suggest some particularly good Playhouse concession stand popcorn? If popcorn is not your favorite, they also have other munchies, such as candy, to chew on while enjoying your show of choice.
I am scheduled to see “Miss Firecracker” next week. It is in the Adventure Theater. Speaking of hot weather, this performance is set in a rural town in Mississippi, as residents prepare for their annual Miss Firecracker Contest, held around the Fourth of July holiday. The competition brings out the best and worst in people. This show runs until Sunday, July 27.
One of my favorite plays is “Hairspray.” I have seen it several times and am very anxious to see it again next month at CCP. This show has great music, large hair, comedy, and a cast that is vibrant and highly energetic.
The story follows Tracy Turnblad, a plus-sized teenager with big dreams who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show, a popular local TV program. When she finally lands a spot, Tracy becomes an overnight sensation and uses her newfound fame to fight for racial integration on the show, a bold move in a segregated society.
Along the way, she faces off against the show’s reigning queen, Amber Von Tussle, and her scheming mother, Velma, while finding allies in the charming Link Larkin, the soulful Seaweed J. Stubbs, and the fierce and fabulous Motormouth Maybelle.
“Hairspray” has won eight Tony Awards and will easily capture your heart if you see it! It runs until Aug. 10.
If you like Dolly’s song and the movie “9 to 5” you will certainly like the play. This highly anticipated musical is a high-energy, feel-good stage adaptation of the 1980 film, featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick.
Set in the late 1970s, the story follows three vastly different women — Violet, a seasoned office manager overlooked for promotions; Doralee, a sweet but misunderstood secretary; and Judy, a timid newcomer reentering the workforce. All three work at Consolidated Industries under the egotistical and manipulative boss Franklin Hart Jr.
Fed up with his behavior, the trio fantasizes about getting revenge — and when a series of comedic mishaps gives them the chance, they seize control of the office. While Hart is “otherwise occupied,” they implement progressive workplace reforms like flexible hours, childcare, and equal pay, transforming the company’s culture and boosting productivity. It opens July 25 and closes on Sept. 14.
Up next is “The Cottage.” “This brand-new comedic play is a side-splitting romp and an outrageous tale of desire and betrayal as one woman decides to expose her latest affair to both her husband – and to his wife in this production. It runs from Aug. 22-Oct. 5.
If you are interested in seeing any of these shows, you may visit the Playhouse website at www.ccplayouse or call 931-484-5000 for ticket prices and seat availabilities.
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Around town, a basketball fundamentals camp is slated for July 21-23 at Crossville First Church of the Nazarene. A fundraiser for MomCo, the director is Cumberland County High School Jet and Bethel University Basketball Hall of Famer, Scott Allen. Students between the ages of 6-10 are welcome and must register by July 16. Call 513-850-4060 for registration costs and details. A
A summer theater camp, hosted by the Stone Memorial High School Theater students, will be held the week of July 14. Students entering grades 4-9 are eligible to attend. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, and the kids will participate in activities throughout the day at Stone Memorial High School. Contact efragopoulos@ccschools.k12tn.net to register.
Is your vehicle dirty and needs cleaning? Stone Memorial High School cheerleading will hold a free car wash fundraiser tomorrow, Saturday, July 12, at Best One Tire on Main Street in Crossville. Hours are from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Donations are appreciated.