By By Janet Little Cooper
One can only imagine how a night on Broadway would feel if you have never been, especially after watching GECA perform the hit Broadway musical "Hello, Dolly!"
I have had family and friends rave about the Broadway productions they have been to. I would love to go myself, but until that day comes and even if it never comes, I will be sufficed in knowing that I saw the next best thing – a live GECA production.
And the best part of that is that I can say, "Oh, I know the lead actor" and I can even go backstage and get a hug or two! Chances of that happening on Broadway are rare.
The cast of "Hello, Dolly!" did a superb job this weekend. If you didn't attend you missed out on a wonderful time.
Atmore is blessed to have such talent in its midst that is willing to share it with everyone.
Matchmaker Dolly Levi played by Sharon Poulsen, a former teacher of mine, stole the stage with her witty comments and persuasive ways as she set her sights on Horace Vandergelder, a well-known "half-a-millionaire" business owner, played by Jerry Janes.
Poulsen and Janes kept the audience captivated as Dolly, the well-known matchmaker, decided to make Horace her husband and set out to play matchmaker with a number of different parties weaving a web of romantic complications all the while.
An upscale New York restaurant was the scene for a ruckus caused by Dolly's matchmaking skills landing her and the matched couples in court. In the end all was well, as Dolly was able to convince Horace to marry her.
From the costumes to the set, GECA put on a first-class production. Unfortunately, the turnout was not as good as expected.
Many people complain about living in a small town due to the lack of things to do.
GECA realizes that and each member has committed themselves to bring the highest quality form of the arts to our small city.
It is rare to see such a quality production in a city of Atmore's size. Residents of Atmore and the surrounding area need to take a good look around before they say Atmore has nothing to offer.
GECA members are stepping out on a volunteer basis to bring a piece of the art culture to us, instead of us having to leave home.
To not support them, is a shame. Even if you aren't a fan of the arts, GECA has something to offer you. If you can't support a production due to a lack of love or even liking of the arts – do it for the people.
This group works long, tireless hours for no financial compensation. They do it for the love of the art. A love that is so true, that they are willing to do it for you.
Become a supporter of the arts today by either becoming a volunteer or becoming a financial supporter and sponsor.
We are blessed to have such an opportunity – let's not let it slip away.
Janet Little Cooper is the editor of the Atmore Advance. She can be reached at 368-2123 or lifestyles@atmoreadvance.com