by Nancy Holley

Looking for fun? The Visalia Players reprise of Respect: A Musical Journey of Women at the Fox Theatre on October 25 will be just that!

Respect, a song-filled sojourn through 20th century America, was originally presented at the Ice House in January. The glowing feedback from members of the sold out houses made Respect the obvious choice for a fundraising opportunity. Partnering with Family Services, the Visalia Players are proud to present a reprise that will benefit both non-profit organizations.

Director Leeni Mitchell describes Respect as a history of cultural change from 1900 to 2000 through American songs. The reprise mounted by Mitchell will feature the same group of talented women who delighted audiences in the original performances. The cast members are: Marla Alberstein, Susan Mathews, Samantha Muse, Jenny Ponce, Karen Simpson, and Ronnette Torrence.

Respect is not a musical revue, but rather a story of change in perspective, depicting the evolution of women in America through their songs, from the vision of “A Bird in A Gilded Cage” to “I Am Woman.” Nevertheless, the music will have your toes tapping and your hands clapping as the familiar songs bring back memories and create new ones.

Three opportunities are available for enjoying the evening:

Dinner Tickets are $100 and include dinner with wine at Café 225 and VIP seating for the show.
VIP Tickets are $60 and include drinks and hors d’oeuvres at Tazzaria and VIP seating for the show.
Reserved Orchestra Tickets are $25.

To purchase dinner tickets contact Susan Mathews at 559-739-1449. To purchase VIP or Reserved Orchestra Tickets visit foxvisalia.org or call 559-625-1369(1FOX).

Nancy Holley has been involved in the Visalia Players off and on since the 1970s, both as a director and actor. In 2010, she retired from 25 years as a software consultant and has since expanded her role at the Players. She is now responsible for Box Office/Hosting volunteers and assisting with launching the Players new on-line ticketing system.