Oklahoma Senior Follies looks back, ahead in revue

Oklahoma Senior Follies will take a look at the past and the future for 2017 during its three performances June 9-11 at the Oklahoma City Community College Visual and Performing Arts Center, 7777 S May Ave.

Returning for its seventh year, the Ziegfeld-style showcase will feature dance and comedy, as well as vocal and instrumental performances.

“Our theme is ‘Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.’ All the songs will tie into that,” said Jackie Short, board president of Oklahoma Senior Follies. “There will be a great variety, songs, skits, jokes … we’ll have all kinds surprises.”

Maestro Joel Levine, longtime conductor of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, is this year’s Senior Follies King.

“Once he retired, he heartily came on board,” Short said. “He’s going to be great. He’s a great storyteller, and we’re very fortunate to have him.”

About 70 mostly local performers ages 55 and up will take the stage this weekend to give what spectators have deemed a highly energetic and entertaining performance that runs the gamut from Broadway tunes to gospel.

Many of the performers have been regulars in Oklahoma City theaters for decades. Others are new to performing.

“We have returning talent and some new talent,” Short said. “We also have some people who are wannabes. You don’t have to be a pro to be in the Follies. It’s an opportunity to express themselves. We all have a great time. This will be our best show yet.”

Director and choreographer Terry Runnels agrees.

“The talent this year is great,” he said. “People should be prepared to have a ball. Talent doesn’t die. The passion is still there.”

Show times are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday.

Those who attend the Follies are encouraged to stop by the Oklahoma Alzheimer’s Association booth to learn about the disease and help increase awareness.

Tickets are $29.99 and may be purchased at www.oksenior follies.com.

Founded by Burbridge Foundation Board Chairman Bobbie Burbridge Lane, the Oklahoma Senior Follies is a project of the Burbridge Foundation.