Senior Follies, a journey 'From Broadway to Hollywood'

The 14th annual Senior Follies production, "Let's Go to the Movies - From Broadway to Hollywood," will be presented Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24 at the Carson City Community Center.

The event raises money to provide meals for Carson City's senior population.

Carla Wilson, who has served as the show's assistant director the past four years, takes over as the director for "From Broadway to Hollywood."

"We've simplified things with this show, which features three set pieces," Wilson said.

The show, which features an array of talent, including singing and dancing, was created around a variety of songs participants brought in at Wilson's request.

"I asked them to bring in songs they liked and knew, which has made things much easier," she said. "Last year, we asked everyone to learn 36 new songs and that's a lot.

"I figured there were songs from old shows they already knew (so) there's a wide variety."

The show, which is nearly 45 minutes shorter than years past, runs about two hours with intermission and features three choreographed numbers. The show itself, features themed segments, including hillbillys and westerns, recent musicals and older show numbers.

"We're presenting a mix that people are familiar with," Wilson said. "There's a humorous spoof on a Beatles' number and Elvis will be in the building."

The all-volunteer cast began rehearsals in March and really put their hearts into this, Wilson said.

"I love working with this group of people ... they hold such a special place in my heart and I've grown a lot of friendships out of this," she said. "They are a group of warm, giving people who inspire me."

And they're giving it all for a wonderful cause.

"We have a very large retired senior community living on fixed incomes and who are barely making ends meet," Wilson said. "All the money we raise through Senior Follies will ensure our seniors have healthy food to eat.

"The fact we have a program like this in our community, that works so well speaks volumes."

Tickets for "Let's Go to the Movies - From Broadway to Hollywood," cost $10, available at the Carson City Senior Citizens Center, 901 Beverly Dr., or at the door at the Community Center. Doors open July 23 at 6:30 p.m. with the show at 7:30 p.m. Doors open July 24 at 1 p.m., with the show at 2 p.m. For more information at the show or to learn how you can help area seniors, call the center at 775-883-0703.