Wednesday brings not only the opening of “The 1940s Radio Hour” but also the official opening of the newly renovated Silverthorne Theater.
“It feels so natural, it fits the show perfectly,” Peterson says of the theater’s atmosphere.
Besides aesthetic improvements to the space, the renovations have been practical as well.
“The biggest thing I’ve noticed is how much the renovations affected the acoustics,” Peterson says.
Those acoustics will be showcased in the upcoming performance thanks to the addition of the Lewis-Clark State College’s jazz band. Their involvement in a production is unique — something that hasn’t happened in recent years, to Peterson’s knowledge.
“It’s really cool to have them in the show,” he says. “They are an incredibly talented group.”
The show depicts a live radio broadcast set on Dec. 21, 1942, during World War II when shows of the sort were used to boost public morale. In the show, the ragtag bunch of radio performers want to make it in the big time, but never really quite make it there, Peterson says.
“The 1940s Radio Show” combines several entertaining elements, including a Frank Sinatra-like lead singer who is drunk more often than not, slapstick humor and jazz standards like “Blue Moon,” “Old Black Magic,” and “Hey Daddy.”
“It maintains a comedic element from start to finish,” Peterson says.
The cast and band is made up of both students and community members and is a collaboration between LCSC’s Center for Arts & History, the theater department and jazz band. With its historic setting, several residents of the Idaho Veterans Home will attend the performance in recognition of their service.
“It’s going to be a great night with some awesome music,” Peterson says, “and a chance to spend time with some fun and quirky characters.”
Theater Opening Gala Event
To commemorate the reopening of the Silverthorne Theater, a special 1940s-themed gala will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. March 28 at the LCSC President’s Home. Tickets must be purchased by Tuesday. The $35 ticket includes hors d’oeuvres, champagne punch and admission to the show.
If you go:
WHAT: “The 1940s Radio Show”
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through March 28, 2 p.m. March 29
WHERE: Silverthorne Theater at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston
COST: $15/person, $13/senior citizens and youth K-12, free for LCSC students with student ID. Tickets are available online at www.lcsc.edu/ce or at the LCSC Center for Arts & History at 415 Main St. in Lewiston.
