Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat thrills the crowds at Beef & Boards

February 5, 2017July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / Leave a comment

The cast sings “Go, Go, Go Joseph” Courtesy B&B Media

Beef & Boards is offering the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as its first musical of the 2017 season. Prepare to put a smile on your face as you enjoy this delightful presentation at Indy’s beloved dinner theatre that runs through March 26th.

Tim Wessel has the title role. Having been the understudy for the character in the recent National Tour, Wessel brings a life long love of the production to his performance. Based on the Old Testament story of Joseph and his life in Egypt, the show was nominated for seven Tony Awards during its Broadway run. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat features a wide variety of music including country, rock, pop and even calypso.

All aspects of the production reveal the professionalism and expertise of the Beef & Boards theatre. The costumes designed by Jill Kelly are a visual treat. The stage set is both dynamic and stunning. The orchestra, directed by Kristy Templet, brings an amazing variety of music to the stage. Doug King both directs and choreographs with an eye for an exciting show. The dancing is superb. Hats off to the talented kids in the Children’s Ensembles who show remarkable on stage poise and talent.

Andrea Fleming makes her B&B debut as the Narrator. Douglas E. Stark in his 45th year in the business is delightful in his portrayal of Jacob and Potiphar. Look for hilarious anachronisms that pop up all through the show including Disco, country swing, and of course Elvis.

Andrea Fleming as the Narrator Courtesy B&B Media

Ryan Neal Green is incredible in his number that has Pharaoh turning into an Egyptian version of Elvis, complete with the hair and gyrating hips. Prepare to tap your feet, smile and think “are they really doing this?” Once again the elaborate costumes add to the splendor of the number. Green’s kibitzing with the crowd adds yet another dimension to the scene.

This production has gone to the top of the list for our favorite shows we have enjoyed at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Every aspect of the show is exciting and surprising. The finale of the show has the entire Company in the “Joseph Megamix” featuring a wildly energetic number that acts a a wrap up. You’ll love it. Don’t miss this show.

Check the Beef & Boards website for information. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 317.872.9664 between 10 a.m. & 7 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays. Tickets include Chef Odell Ward’s dinner buffet, fruit & salad bar, and select beverages. Plenty of free parking is available.

WWII Gun Emplacements Once Protected Puget Sound and Seattle

November 23, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / Leave a comment

The Army had plans in place to upgrade the Puget Sound harbor defenses when the Japanese attacked Pearl
Harbor on December 7, 1941. The attack prompted a feverish scramble to implement those WWII plans.

Fort Ebey was constructed from 1942 to 1944. It overlooked the Straight of Juan de Fuca and the open Pacific
Ocean. It was the first of a series of defensive positions that also included forts Casey, Worden and
Flagler, also on Puget Sound.

One of the two gun turret foundations that still look over Puget Sound

Historic Fort Ebey State Park on Widbey Island is home to the remains of Battery 248 of the Coast Artillery
Regiment of the Washington National Guard. The guns are gone, having been melted down for scrap at the end
of the war. What remains, however, are the two circular gun emplacements and the supporting large concrete
bunker where ammunition, powder bags, and other equipment was stored.

The bunker is open to the public. A flashlight is a good companion if you venture into the bunker, as the
rooms are not provided with any lights. You will see the massive steel doors on the powder rooms as well
as the concrete pads where the three large generators were placed.

In front of the bunker towards the edge of the steep cliff you will see the forward observation bunker. A
narrow slit provided a panoramic view of the waters. No ships could enter the Sound without being spotted.

Forward observation post

Date on the main bunker entrance

The main armament of the fort was provided by two guns on swivel turrets. These guns fired a 108 pound
shell with a range of 15 miles. The 26 man gun crews could fire a round every 12 seconds.

Take a step back in time with a visit to Fort Ebey State Park. Walk where the artillerymen walked. Explore
the bunker. Stand near the forward observation position and imagine being on the lookout for enemy ships
trying to invade the Puget Sound.

Day passes are only $10, with a yearly pass available for $30. More information about Fort Ebey State Park may be found at the park website.

Fun at Virginia Beach beaches

July 23, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / Leave a comment

Sometimes the weather conditions can be a little rough for enjoying the boardwalk and beaches at Virginia Beach. However the city has added features to the beach scene that provide families the opportunity to use the beach even on cool and blustery days.

A unique beach park and playground

A imaginative park design

There have been many additions to the beach since our last visit. The Grommet Island park and playground has really nice playground equipment with some whimsical features. Our granddaughter enjoyed playing in this park when we went to the beach during a recent trip to visit our family.

A blustery day

A few folks enjoying the boardwalk

We liked seeing the pelicans flying overhead

“Church Basement Ladies” gives a light hearted evening of fun

July 17, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / Leave a comment

The cast of Church Basement Ladies

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre brings back to the stage the original version of the popular Church Basement Ladies series this summer. Set in the basement of a rural Minnesota Lutheran church in 1964, four ladies of various ages bring a mix of nostalgia, cooking, planning and hilarity to this fun story.

Beef & Boards favorite Eddie Curry is featured as the hapless pastor of this church. His interaction with the basement ladies rings so true to anyone who has experience in a local church of any denomination. Licia Watson is fabulous as the matriarch of the basement kitchen, Vivian Snustad. Vivian is struggling with changes within the church, including a recent change from black to red hymnals. The unforgettable Mavis Gilmerson is played by Karen Pappas, reprising her original role. Newcomer to B&B is Dawn Trautman (an authentic Minnesota Lutheran) playing Karin Engleson and Lindsay Sutton is featured as Karin’s daughter, Signe.

“Mavis” in a typical wacky scene

You will laugh ’til you cry

The story follows the problems the ladies face as they prepare for the typical series of events that most church kitchens have: Christmas dinner, a funeral bereavement meal, the Easter celebration and even a wedding. The antics of the ladies as they compare recipes, reduce the possibilities of disasters and keep the pastor in line will have you laughing until you cry.

Don’t miss this funny and poignant production at the popular Indy northside venue. Church Basement Ladies is on stage through August 21st. Tickets include the famous all you care to eat buffet from Chef Odell Ward. Free parking is close and always available. Call the box office at 317-872-9664 for ticket reservations. You may also visit the Beef & Boards website for all details.

“The Lost Colony” brings history to the outdoor stage

July 13, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / Leave a comment

1st contact between Indians and English

The Lost Colony of Roanoke Island has been the subject of study by historians for centuries. For the past 79 years the Roanoke Island Historical Association has put on a play that gives the history of the lost settlement and one version of what happened to the missing settlers.

This production is a wonderful play. The costumes and sets are fantastic and the actors are professionals who give great performances. The outdoor theatre is very comfortable and all seats provide good views of the stage. The show has all the elements of a top notch production including a seamless narration given by a “National Park Ranger”.

The story line traces the history of the early English explorations in the New World. The interaction between the Indians and the English is portrayed with drama and in a couple of cases violence. The scenes shift back and forth between Roanoke Island and Queen Elizabeth and the English Royal Court and the docks in London.

Lavish costume for “Queen Elizabeth” (Emily Asbury)

Actor Christian Muller

We were able to chat with one of the cast members prior to the show. Christian Durand Muller was a delight to talk with and, as part of the Choir, added greatly to the production.

The Waterside Theatre is located within the grounds of the Fort Raleigh National historic Site. The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular travel destination. When you visit be sure to get tickets for “The Lost Colony”. Here is the website.

Old Tom (Robert Hooghkirk)

Sure looks like a ship sailing off to the New World!

Don Bridge portrays NPS Historian (narrator)

We shared conversation with Alan Cottrill, master sculptor

April 14, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / 4 Comments

Alan Cottrill, left, with Maj inside Alan’s Studio and Gallery

As soon as we had introduced ourselves Alan immediately noticed the small leather medicine bag that I wore around my neck. Understanding proper protocol he did not ask what was carried within. I knew that Sher and I were in for a treat interacting with this gifted and learned sculptor.

Alan graciously shared with me his history that led to his work in the 3D world of sculpture. From an international multi-millionaire businessman at 30 to a starving artist in New York City at 40, he explained how each came about. Alan really lit up when he recounted the “first time” he “touched clay”. Thus the paint brush was put aside and his true genius showed itself.

Small version with photo of final scupture in place

Red Cloud study board

I was fascinated to learn that Alan spends so much time learning everything he can about the person who will be featured in his work. A bust of George Armstrong Custer is displayed on the first floor of the Gallery. A duplicate is now at West Point. Alan spent a lot of research time on the photos, life and times of Custer. Then I noticed a large board on an easel with mutiple photos and a book about Red Cloud, the famed Ogala Souix War leader. Thus I was able to see the beginings of what will in the future be another fine sculpture by Alan Cottrill.

His Gallery in Zanesville, Ohio is filled with hundreds of his works. His early paintings are also displayed. He shared that his favorite works are the two sarcophagi for his wife and himself. His children’s faces adorn the sides of each, and never will you see a more poignant depiction of love of spouse and family.

A trip to Zanesville is in order for anyone who loves art. This is the Gallery website.

The Cottrill sarcophagi

We meet the nicest people while traveling

April 13, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / 2 Comments

Rachael removing the molds

We’ve met the nicest people on our travels through the United States. On Monday we were at the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio and Gallery. This is located in Zanesville, Ohio and we almost passed by this town as we were traveling on Interstate 70.

Rachael Girton has been working at the Alan Cottrill Studio and Gallery for almost 8 years. She has been working for Mr. Cottrill since high school. She was in a government sponsered program for disabled teens who might have trouble finding a job as an adult. Rachele has type 1 Diabetes which is the most serious form of diabetes.

She started working at the Gallery while in high school and was such a valued employee that she has been there for almost 8 years.

Maj was fascinated with the process

Abe revealed! The molds will be used for the “lost wax” process

She is a totally delightful person and we were so happy to meet her. She led us through the process of removing the molds from a bust of Abe Lincoln. It was fascinating watching her carefully removing the two mold pieces. Maj was there watching her every move!

Be sure to visit Alan Cotrill’s website here to see more of Alan’s remarkable works.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus Ohio

April 7, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / 2 Comments

One of the beautiful butterflies

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus, Ohio is a most remarkable facility. Nestled in the beauty of the Franklin Park, the Conservatory houses a wide varitey of fauna from all over the world. Different ecosystems are represented in different “rooms” within the massive structure.

Himalayan Mountain fauna is found in one of the rooms. You can move from the Himalayan Mountains through a door and enjoy desert plants in yet another room, Man made stone outcroppings set the foundation for all of the plants on display. Waterfalls and other water features add to the ambience of the displays.

Of special interest is the tropical rain forest room that also serves as a home to hundreds of butterflies. Bred on site, the different species of butterflies are released several times during the week by staff members. During these informative release shows the staff discusses the life cycles and traits of each butterfly.

Strange cacti in the desert hall

Brilliant color and striking bloom

Parts of the facility was under renovation when we visitied with our granddaughter, however the construction did not interfere with our enjoyment of the many plants and ecosystems represented.

Make sure to plan a visit to the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus. All pertainent information is on their website here.

The Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

March 13, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / 1 Comment

Hillbilly wheels

You know that there will be some great family friendly comedy as part of the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud. What you may not expect is that fact that you’ll start grinning and chuckling as soon as you leave your car and approach the building. The outside of the facility is covered with good humor in the form of signs, artifacts on the walls and even a real two hole outhouse! Around the front are a couple of barnyards filled with critters to see and several interesting vehicles.

The seating in the facility is very comfotable. Sher and I had our own table as did all the other couples. Large tables are available for families of four or more and groups. One side of the theater is tagged as the Hatfield side. The other, where we were seated, is of course the McCoy side. Good natured cheering is encouraged throughout the evening for your side.

Sher in the two hole outhouse

Comfortable dining

Let’s talk about the meal. As soon as you are seated your server brings your drink of choice followed by soup and rolls. The meal is served family style and includes fried chicken, pulled pork, corn on the cob, cole slaw and mashed taters. The food is excellent and you can have seconds or more if you want. The service is fast and efficient. A nice dessert is included with your meal. Beer and “moonshine” is also available at extra cost.

Playing “Foggy Mountain Breakdown”

She has a great voice

The show starts with the groundwork of the Hatfield-McCoy feud described as both sides of the crowd start to hoop it up! The show is made up of a series of great bluegrass music numbers, hilarious banter between the two families and some absolutely fabulous dance numbers. Amongst the dancers are a young man and even younger girl. Both of these kids have great careers ahead. Watch for these talented youngsters.

Granny McCoy and Elder Hatfield

One of the great clogging numbers

There are some great sight gags and fun slap stick comedy during the show. The excitement and professionalism of the cast is noticeable in each segment of the show. Granny is head of the McCoys and of course the elder Hatfield runs his clan with an iron fist. However both end up getting together and all ends well.

The patiotic ending of the show will have you on your feet. The newly remodeled Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Theater is a marvelous venue for this rousing and entertaining show. It is hard to beat good food and a great show. Put this one on your list when you visit the Great Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Get all the information you need for tickets and times at the show website here.

Have to love a 5 string

Red Skelton Tribute Show in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

March 11, 2016July 2, 2022 / Roadtirementvintage / Leave a comment

My time with Brian before the show

Every once in a while you come across an entertainment opportunity that really tugs at your heart. Sher and I attended such a show at Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The Red Skelton Tribute show is the work of Brian Hoffman. He presents Red Skelton just as he was during the heyday of Skelton’s TV shows on CBS so many years ago.

Hoffman had a ten year run in Las Vegas but moved to Pigeon Forge a couple of years ago. I was able to talk with Brian before the show, and I asked him what prompted the move to Tennessee. He responded simply: “Divine intervention.” This set the stage for my learning about Brian and his calm and gentle demeanor. He explained that he loves putting on shows that are funny and filled with clean and clever comedy just as Red Skelton always performed.

He thoroughly loves presenting Red Skelton not only as a trip down memory lane for us baby boomers, but also as an education for the younger generation who have never heard of Red Skelton. Brian chuckled when he said that the younger generation includes youngsters including those in their late thirties!

An ad you won’t see today

Gertrude and Heathcliff

The entertainment begins with a 30 minute pre-show presentation in slide show format. Accompanied by vintage songs from the 50’s and 60’s you are treated to a montage of pictures from days gone by. All your old favorite autos are pictured. There is a series of photos of movie stars from those days. Ed Wynn, Humphrey Bogart, The Marx Brothers, Audrey Hepburn and Hopalong Cassidy are but a few of those dispayed. Old toys, cereals, games and even ads are shown, all getting you ready for the show.

Brian Hoffman as Red Skelton

Clem Kadiddlehopper

Brian starts his performance as Red Skelton doing standup. It is remarkable how much he looks, acts and sounds like Skelton. His unobtrusive interaction with the crowd in the intimate Starlight Theater is a big part of the show. Everyone feels at ease and at home during the patter. You will have a huge grin on your face between those outbursts of the laughter that keeps on coming.

During the show you will be treated to several of the many characters that Skelton made famous during his career. Hoffman nails each one of them perfectly. Remember the pair of seagulls named Gertrude and Heathcliff? They apperar often during the show. You will appreciate Clem Kadiddlehopper in his coat of many colors. The act is vibrant and energetic as Hoffman switches back and forth from routine to routine.

Becoming Freddie the Freeloader

Freddie the Freeloader

Hoffamn changes into the Freddie the Freeloader character is a very unique way. He sits with his back to the audience and delivers a beautiful monologue as he applies the makeup for the transformation to Freddie.

During the final portion of the show you will be treated to Skelton’s famous reading and interpretation of the Pledge of Allegiance to our flag. This heart warming finale will make you think, bring a tear to your eye and reinforce that you made the right decision to see Brian Hoffman as Red Skelton.

I know there are lots of great entertainment choices in Pigeon Forge, but do yourself and your family a favor and make sure that this show is on your list. Here is the Red Skelton Tribute website.

Brian Hoffman as Red Skelton as Freddie the Freeloader