Photo Flash: First Look at ATP's FOREVER PLAID

It was a time of big cars, crewcuts, The Ed Sullivan Show, and beautiful music. On February 9th, 1964, a semi-professional harmony group from eastern Pennsylvania was on their way to their first big gig at the airport Hilton Cocktail Bar. While driving in their cherry-red 1954 Mercury convertible, they were rehearsing their finale when they were slammed broadside by a school bus filled with eager Catholic teens from Our Lady of Harrisburg. The teens were on their way to witness the Beatles make their U.S. television debut on the Ed Sullivan Show, and miraculously escaped uninjured. The harmony group, however, was killed instantly.

"This is a musical for all ages. For many people, it will take them back to a time when life was much simpler," says Austin Theatre Project's Artistic Director, David Blackburn. "It was a time when parents and children actually listened to much of the same music. On the other hand, younger audience members will feel like they've discovered a new genre of music."

This critically acclaimed musical celebrating the precision harmonies and well-choreographed moves that were the epitome of traditional values of the fifties and early sixties... big cars, short hair, home, and harmony. The uproariously entertaining Forever Plaid is perfect for the entire family. Filled with the nostalgic sounds of the period, the musical incorporates beautifully composed, close four-part harmony. "The Plaids" sing some of the greatest hits of the era, including "Catch a Falling Star," "Three Coins in the Fountain," "Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing," and "Magic Moments." Forever Plaid features a book by Stuart Ross, and musical arrangements by James Raitt.

Austin Theatre Project's production of Forever Plaid features Travis Martin (Godspell) as Jinx, Daniel Cline (Carrie: the Musical) as Frankie, Scott Graham (Carrie: the Musical) as Sparky, and Matt Gauck (Baby, Bending Broadway) as Smudge. David Blackburn is Music Director and pianist for the show and is joined by Kyle Welch on the upright Bass. Forever Plaid is directed by ATP co-founder Barbara Schuler and choreography is by Cathie Sheridan.

Lighting design is by James Jennings and sound design is by Sam Kokajko. The set for Forever Plaid is by Jim Schuler and costume coordination is by Veronica Prior.

Forever Plaid runs through August 29 at the Ground Floor Theatre (979 Springdale Road). Tickets are $25-$40 with special group rates available for parties of ten or more. For specific dates, show times, and ticket purchase, visit www.austintheatreproject.org.

Photos by Doc List Photography

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