10-9-8-7…… BLAST OFF, TO THE PAST!
MARRIOTT THEATRE PRESENTS “BEEHIVE” A sixties’ MUSICAL REVIEW
BY Bob Rubin, For TSP News
So, six girls come out in pink tightish late 50’s, early 60’s sweaters. They sit down on the stage with their musical instruments. I thought, is this the accompaniment band but on the stage? They start playing a musical overture and they are really good! IT IS the accompaniment band, on the stage!
Then a bunch of ladies dressed in early 60’s garb come on the stage and sing their hearts out. They do big hits from the female pioneers of the time like, Shirley Ellis, Connie Frances, The Supremes, Chiffons, Shirelles, Leslie Gore, and, of course, mega starts Aretha Franklin and Tina Turner. Many of the songs were written by female pioneer composers such as Carole King. Remember…Name Game, It’s My Party, My Boyfriend’s Back, Natural Woman, Bobby McGee, Son of A Preacher Man? Hear these great songs, plus!
Then, I woke up. There was a lot more going on here than a review of hit 60’s songs. It was a concert about female artists performed by female artists, instrumentally backed up by female musicians. As the songs progressed through the 60’s, the dress they wore changed as well, adding to the excitement.
As I looked around the audience, initially, I saw a lot of very reserved folks. Once the music started this group became very lively and there was a sea of smiles and hand clapping though out the room.
A big sing out goes to: Larry Gallagher, the creator of “Beehive”; Peter Blair, Executive Producer, who brought it to the Marriott; Peter Marston Sullivan, Artistic Director and Deidre Goodman who directed and choreographed this production.
This 60’s extraordinaire is playing at the Marriott Theater in Lincolnshire through August 11. Go to www.MarriottTheatre.com for dates, times and ticket availability. This female musical empowerment show is highly recommended.