What is National Theatre Community Vaudeville?

This program brings small-scale music, theatre, story-telling and dance presentations to disadvantaged audiences in the Greater Washington Area.

Performers bring their shows to these audiences in their own homes and meeting places: community rooms, recreation centers, social rooms, libraries and church halls.

John Loomis, the Corporate Administrator of the National Theatre Corporation, directs the program.

Cabaret Capers - Comedy and Songs

Lucille Frohling, Jerry Carroll and Tom Vogt entertain with a Cabaret Act consisting of songs by George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Rodgers & Hart. In addition to Broadway show tunes and Tin Pan Alley hits, they perform comedy interludes inspired by Noel Coward and Dorothy Parker. The revue is a bubbly , high-class and fun "night out on the town."

Michael Chamberlin - Dean of Deception

Michael Chamberlin will dazzle your group with a high-energy magic show blending comedy, mystery, and music into a mesmerizing display of theatricality. He and his audience explore and expand some of magic’s oldest traditions and newest wrinkles — featuring the classical "Chinese Linking Rings," the famous "Mutilated Parasol," and the very funny "Jake da Snake and his Magic Egg." Witty, fun and surprising, Michael was selected by the National Geographic Society to advise and appear in their book, "You Won't Believe Your Eyes." ... And you won't!

The Class Act - Song, Dance & Comedy

This mellow trio, bursting with talent, takes your audience on an energetic, costumed, whirlwind tour of song and dance from many cultures and countries. Opera, Broadway, jigs, jazz and trumpet solos! Spanish Dance, Israeli Dance, Greek Dance! Tarantellas, ballads and hoe-downs! This remarkable company does it all, and with flair, flourish and a good deal of fun!

Michael Consoli - A Night at the Opera

Suave in his concert attire, Mr. Consoli performs The Art of the Basso in Opera and Song. His one-hour recital includes art songs, operatic arias, and musical selections ranging from the mid-18th to 20th centuries. Performed with synthesized piano accompaniment, this program takes the audience on a great "up close" and informative visit to the opera.

THE DIAMONDS

These dynamic dancers "of a certain age" will lift your spirits as they tap their way through a variety of styles.  On display will be rhythm tap, soft shoe, close-to-the-floor, military novelty, swing and jazz.  Each number is costumed in dazzling finery.  The awesome and energetic ladies of the ensemble average 74 years in age, and will leave you breathless and delighted.

STEVE FLYNN as FRANK SINATRA

"Old Blue Eyes" comes to life as Steve Flynn sings the songs made famous by the velvet-voiced Frank Sinatra. Those who remember the antics and cool musicianship which characterized the Las Vegas performances of the "Rat Pack" will revel in this re-creation. Mr. Flynn has Sinatra's style, suave showmanship, and sophistication down pat, and he delivers the songs with a directness, warmth and appeal which are all his own.

NONI FRENKEL - Vocalist

Ms. Frenkel is a versatile and dynamic performer. She presents a show of songs and her own delightful stories, with recorded music. Walking among the audience, she creates an interactive friendliness for her performance. After the show, she will invite everyone to sing old favorites along with her. Song sheets with the words are provided so that everyone will have a chance to join in and sing out with assurance.

Keith Fulwood - Actor/Comedian

Mr. Fulwood amuses, challenges and activates audience imaginations with his monologues, comic characters, dialogues and comedic interpretations. A dynamic and highly interactive performer, he provides inspiration and insight for audiences of all ages, sharing personal experiences in a question-and-answer finale to his program.

SPENCER "SPINNY"JOHNSON

A two-time All-American basketball star renowned for high scores and trick-shot artistry, SPINNY is also an inspiring performer for all ages. He dazzles with a dynamic display of digital dexterity, and invites the audience to participate! Behind the fast-action tricks and laughs are encouraging references to perseverance and positive thinking.

Mary Ann Jung Makes History Alive!

This Award-wining performer presents lively shows about amazing Women in History. Some of her characters are famous names you know, like Amelia Earhart, Queen Elizabeth I, Julia Child, and Clara Barton. Others are ladies you may not know but will  enjoy meeting and learning about, like Margaret Brent and Rosalie Calvert. All have fun, surprising stories and the members of the audience become part of their adventures!

Lynn McCune - Vocalist

Ms. McCune performs songs from the 20's, 30's, 40's and early 50's in the style of Patti Page, Billie Holliday, Patsy Cline and Marilyn Monroe. Using a wireless microphone, she moves around the room serenade your audience "close-up." Bedecked in a dazzling evening gown, she'll enchant you with her lively singing style and rich vocal sound, transporting you back to a grand world of big bands and beautiful ballrooms.

Somos el Mar - Vocalists and Instrumentalists

Bill Davis and Pat Chen - Somos el Mar - "We are the Sea" - sing folk, popular, ethnic, international, Celtic, Caribbean, nostalgic, historic and fun songs, as well as their own originals.  Bill plays 6- & 12-string guitars, electric classical guitar, and occasionally a banjo, tin whistle, bodran (irish drum) and mouth trumpet.  Pat Chen Plays autoharp, violin (electric and regular) and various drums and percussion instruments.  Their program changes with the seasons.  You might hear Oh, Susanna, Ragtime Cowboy Joe or some real "elevator music," as well as fiddle tunes, sing-a-longs, rounds, jokes - and music from many traditions during holiday periods.  They often use large inflatable figures in their grand finale.

Frank Plumer - Pianist and Singer

Variety is the Spice of Life, and Frank Plumer, an engaging pianist and singer, brings variety to every performance. From Classical to Jazz, and everything in between, Frank delivers a unique and high-spirited blend of quality music. Ranging from opera to Broadway, Frank's enthusiasm and knowledge of music will make any occasion memorable. Frank includes jazz, torch songs, art songs, international folk songs and sing-a-longs in his repertoire, providing his audiences with a little something for everyone.

A PARTY WITH MAUREEN RIBBLE

Maureen is the “hostess with the mostess” at a fun-filled festival of joy, toe-tapping songs and sweet nostalgia. She is a singer of upbeat exuberance with a unique ability to "connect" with her audience. She radiates charm, warming the hearts of any group. With a special knack for engaging her listeners, she sings medleys from Broadway and the 1940's Hit Parade. The party finishes with an energetic audience-thrilling patriotic salute.

Donato Sorano - Wide World of Song

Versatile and suave, Mr. Sorano's inspiring and entertaining repertoire ranges from grand opera through operetta and musical theatre to religious and old-time favorites. His musical feast includes Italian and Spanish folk songs, with special programs for Christmas, Columbus Day, Valentine's day and other holidays. He adds a dash of international panache by singing in several languages. He works with piano or organ, or brings his own keyboard or tapes. On occasion he can also bring his chamber opera ensemble

What Audiences are eligible for these performances?

Groups include particularly seniors, children and others who, due to health, age, social condition, economic status, or other reasons, would not often or ever be able to see live performances at a theatre. Presentations are made at hospitals, day-care centers, neighborhood community centers, retirement homes, senior citizen day-time centers, boys' and girls' clubs, summer camps, schools and similar venues.

What kind of shows?

Like old-time vaudeville shows, the program includes a wide variety of easily transportable theatrical
and musical performances, generally involving one to four performers and no technical support personnel. Variety acts, singers, dancers, musical & instrumental groups, comics, magic, jugglers, and clowns are all on the bill.

How are performances arranged?

PERFORMERS who are willing to make a presentation anywhere in the Greater Washington Area - for an honorarium of $250 per performance - may apply to audition for the program. Auditions are held, however, only when new acts are needed. Performers must be comfortable appearing before audiences which may include persons suffering from Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, dementia, and other disabling conditions.

VENUES indicate which performers would be appropriate for their particular clientele: children, seniors, patients or others.

JOHN LOOMIS, Corporate Administrator for the National Theatre Corporation and director of the program, contacts a performer for the venue for a particular date, sends a contract to the performer and venue, and authorizes a performance when contracts are signed and returned.

National pays the performer upon receipt of a voucher signed by the venue after the completion of the show. That's all there is to it! If you would like more information, please contact us.

NATIONAL THEATRE COMMUNITY VAUDEVILLE
Attn: Mr. John H. Loomis
1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20004

(No telephone calls, PLEASE. Venues MUST send a copy of 501.c.3 not-for profit verification in order to be
considered for this program. Performers should send resume, recommendations, photo and performance video.
Audio cassettes are not acceptable.)

Find out about the National Theatre Courtesy Email List.