by Lorie Lewis Ham
Reedley’s River City Theatre Co. has been doing Legends shows for a few years now. What started as a novel idea that could have just been a one time thing, has blossomed into a yearly event for RCTC and for good reason! Local performers take the stage performing as some of the big musical Legends, and sometimes comedy ones, of the last few decades and it’s always a lot of fun.
This year it is Legends American Bandstand and the music ranges from the 50s when the show started, all the way up to the 80s. The show starts off with the American Bandstand theme song of the 50s with the performers filling the stage in costumes that remind you of the musical Hairspray. It’s an energetic and fun way to start the show. 
As we go through the decades you are treated to the songs of Buddy Holly, James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, Cher, Jerry Lee Lewis, Madona, a fun Michael Jackson tribute, plus many, many, many more! The performers do a great job of presenting the songs in the styles of each performer, and often come really close to looking and sounding like them as well. Special kudos goes to costumer Tommie Hill and local hair stylist Lillie Valencia in helping make those characters come to life right before your eyes. Erik Valencia plays Dick Clark and announces each performer.
My favorites included Joseph Ham as Buddy Holly and Dion DiMucci in Dion and the Belmonts (note he is my son so I may be prejudiced so check out the show and decide for yourself), Jacob Alvarado as Ritchie Valens, Jeff Lusk as the Big Bopper, Thomas Hayes as Frankie Valli along with Joseph, Aaron Mendoza and Jacob Alvarado as the rest of the Four Seasons, Olivia Hayes as Carol King, and more then I can name. Other really fun numbers included all of the guys as the Village People performing YMCA, and you haven’t lived until you have seen Joseph and Aaron as Wham! The show ends with a bang, with the cast again performing the American Bandstand theme song.
Other familiar faces in the cast include Heather Price, Ben Applegate, Stephen Balladarez, Amber Herrera, Alina Gonzalez, and Cassandra Charles.
If you are looking for a really fun night at the theatre don’t miss Legends American Bandstand! It continues on stage through February 15, including a performance on Valentine’s Day–what better way to enjoy a romantic evening out with that special someone. And by seeing the show, you also support local theatre–it’s a win, win! Tickets can be purchased by calling 638-6500 and on their website and KRL local theatre event page.
Check out more local arts and entertainment articles in KRL’s A & E section.
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