by Lorie Lewis Ham

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, there’s nothing like four guys singing four part harmony! Last night I saw Forever Plaid on stage in Clovis and I found myself in four-part heaven! There are only two performances left of this show–both today, Saturday, September 21, and you don’t want to miss it!

Director Scott Hancock explained the story behind Forever Plaid perfectly in KRL’s article on the show earlier this week, “It’s the story of four high schoolers who formed their own singing group and were prepping to really hit it big. They were killed in a car crash before ever having the chance. This show is their return to Earth to get their one chance at their big break.”

Plaid cast left to right-Darren Tharp, Eric Estep, Kyle Dodsen & Peter Allwine

The cast consists of Eric Estep as Frankie, the leader of the group; Kyle Dodson as Smudge, the man-child with a heart of gold; Darren Tharp as Sparky, the cut-up of the group; and Peter Allwine as Jinx, the shy one who gets coaxed out from behind everyone’s shadow.

The set for this show is always simple, with Scott also doubling as the piano player who “came with the room.” There are also a lot of fun props throughout the show. For someone who loves the old 50s music like I do, the show is filled with familiar songs that include “Three Coins in the Fountain”, “Heart and Soul”, “Love Is A Many Splendored Thing,” and “Sixteen Tons.”

There are fun little bits throughout the show that make you laugh and fall in love with the characters as much as the music. One of my favorite bits is the Ed Sullivan Show. My favorite character will always be Jinx! He’s so adorable and shy, and well he’s a tenor and I just LOVE a tenor voice. I melted when Jinx (Peter) sang, “Cry.” But each character is fun, and every song is filled with beautiful four-part harmony and beautiful voices! All four of these guys did a great job!

So don’t miss your last two chances to see Forever Plaid presented by CenterStage Clovis at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th Street in Clovis. There is a matinee at 2 and an evening performance at 7:30. Tickets are: Adult: $15, Student/Senior: $12. Tickets available at the door or online at www.centerstageclovis.com through ETIX. Space is limited.

Check out more local entertainment articles in our Arts & Entertainment section.

Lorie Lewis Ham is our Editor-in-Chief and a contributor to various sections, coupling her journalism experience with her connection to the literary and entertainment worlds. Explore Lorie’s mystery writing at Mysteryrat’s Closet.