SWING TIME
‘In the Mood’ showcases music, dancing from 1930s, ’40s
After 23 years on tour, there’s always something new for Bud Forrest to experience.
“We’ve got the show down to a science,” he says during a recent interview from Davenport, Iowa. “It’s the unexpected things that make life wonderful.”
Forrest is the mastermind behind the touring production of “In the Mood.”
The performance combines incredible choreography with America’s greatest hits of the 1930s and ’40s.
He says it also features the In the Mood singers and dancers with the sensational String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra.
Talented swing dancers perform to the music of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Harry James, Erskine Hawkins, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra and other idols of the past.
He says it brings back memories from the era before World War II and the joyful music that erupted from it.
“It’s a piece of American history,” he says. “The melodies are catchy and have stood the test of time. This music became popular when people went out to dance and be social. It reminds us of how life was a little more simple.” Forrest travels with 24 others on tour. There are 19 performers from across the country, and the others are crew members.
“Each day is a new adventure, and the performers enjoy that aspect,” he says. “Though we’re all from different places in the country, we’re able to connect with each other through the music. It’s a special time.”
Forrest began a touring performance of “In the Mood” more than 23 years ago.
Since then, he has produced shows in 49 states — all but Alaska — and Australia and the Netherlands.
“I never thought I would be able to travel so much with this production,” he says.
“It’s a wonderful blessing. And we played Albuquerque last year, and sold it out. They asked us back for two shows this year. We’ve obviously struck a chord with audiences.”
Forrest likes that he is able to employ musicians for the long haul.
“I have people who stay with me for a long time,” he says. “Others want to gain more experience, and it’s a great way for musicians to try their hand at a different genre.”