HCLO cools summer heat with “The Marvelous Wonderettes” | Arts & Culture

By Petch Lucas

It’s high time to cool these hot summer months with a splash of soulful oldies from the 1950’s and 60’s.  And what’s a better way to do so than with Hattiesburg Civic Light Opera’s upcoming dinner theatre, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” which will be performed at the Jackie Dole Sherrill Community Center August 8-11 at 7:30 pm (dinner at 6:30 p.m.).  A Sunday matinee will be performed August 12, with dinner at 1:00 pm and show at 2 p.m.

“The Marvelous Wonderettes” is a wistful excursion to 1958, where the Springfield High School prom is set to commence.  Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy comprise the Wonderettes, four young ladies whose tales of love and loss--and ultimately hope--inform the show, buttressed by a bevy of roof-raising hit tunes.  Expect to hear such enduring ditties as “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Lipstick On Your Collar,” “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” “It’s My Party” and many other classic hits.  And that’s just the first act.

The second act details their tenuous ten-year high school reunion, where the Wonderettes are reunited and are confronted with working out their own personal struggles.  Songs include “Heatwave,” “I Only Want To Be With You,” “Son Of A Preacher Man” and “Maybe I Know,” plus many more, including a rousing rendition of “Respect.”

The show features Katie Hovan, Julie Walker Tator, Amanda Stary and Danielle Metcalf (who also choreographs) in the title roles.  Michael Marks directs, with music conducted by Ken Leach.  Tickets are $27 (includes meal) and can be purchased at 601-583-5694.