The Big Band Broadcast brings 40s swing to historic Balboa Theatre
San Diego Theatres continues their season at the historic Balboa Theatre with a swinging re-enactment of the best of the 40’s big band era—with glamour, panache, humor, and top quality musicianship. Anyone that enjoyed last season’s production of “In the Mood” won’t want to miss The Big Band Broadcast April 10 at 2 p.m. at the Balboa Theatre.
The Big Band Broadcast, starring Holly Larocque and the Mark Ferguson Orchestra, is a joyful and high-powered return to the golden age of radio broadcasts from starlit ballrooms. The show follows the design of those long-ago evenings when glamour was king and big bands ruled the airwaves. The audience is invited in to a time-warp with the first strains of the 13-piece orchestra and their opening number “Singin’ with the Big Bands”, and guided on a sentimental journey by the forties-style patter of the engaging radio announcer.
Showcased with solos, specialized introductions and entertaining choreography, the arrangements are true to the originals in form and atmosphere but are advanced into the new millenium with the added advantage of Mark Ferguson’s singular arranging style.
Step back in time and experience a 1940’s big band concert as it would have been broadcast “live to air,” with classics of the Big Band era: “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree”, “Stardust”, “In the Mood”, “And the Angels Sing,” as well as a few surprises along the way.
True to the period, the show is interrupted for vital words from sponsors and station call letters; it’s a visual treat from the musicians, vintage bandstands and microphones to Miss Larocque’s specially created gowns, wigs, and jewels. Holly Larocque and the Mark Ferguson Orchestra do for big band what Andre Rieu does for Strauss presenting a musical niche with glamour, panache, humor, and top quality musicianship; a sentimental journey that leaves audiences feeling energized, refreshed and wanting more!
Tickets range from $29 – $49, on sale now; and can be purchased by calling (619/858/760) 570-1100; online at www.sdbalboa.org; or in person at either the Civic Theatre Ticket Office at Third & B Street (open Monday through Friday, 10AM to 6PM) or the Balboa Theatre Ticket Office at performance times at Fourth & E Street (Call (619/858/760) 570-1100 for hours). Discounts available for Seniors, Students, Active Military and Groups of 10 or more. Call for details.
