Performance showcases music and comedy

Second chances in life are rare, especially posthumously. Theater, however, is a different story.

This story begins with a singing group that just got its big break. But on the way to pick up their tuxedos, they are broad-sided by a school bus and die instantly, never having the chance to showcase their talent.

Then fate intervenes. They have opportunity to return to earth for one night and perform the perfect concert.

Thus proceeds the plot of "Forever Plaid," the first offering of the 16th anniversary season of the Western Nevada Musical Theater Company.

"Forever Plaid" is a comedy contrived around the strengths and foibles of the four band members interlaced with memory-inducing songs from the 1950s.

"What sells this show are the songs. All the songs they sing in tight four-part harmony. It's so absolutely wonderful that it's almost healing," said Stephanie Arrigotti, producer and director.

The show features many top songs from the 50s hit charts, including "Lady of Spain," "Three Coins in the Fountain," "Heart and Soul," "Sixteen Tons," "Catch a Falling Star," and "Shangri-La."

"Forever Plaid" stars Steve Murdoch, David Tillitt, Steve Meyer and Alan Jones as the band members Jinx, Francis, Sparky and Smudge, who are given one last shot at their collective dream.

Each band member brings his or her own particular personality to the show, from the dyslexic Smudge to Jinx, who suffers from nose bleeds every time he sings a high A.

"It's a very sweet type of humor with very endearing characters," Arrigotti said. "It's a show with moments of tremendous comedy with phenomenal music."

There are 12 performances of "Forever Plaid," beginning Friday in Marlette Hall in the Cedar Building on the campus of Western Nevada Community College. Tickets are $18 for general admission, $16 for students and seniors and $14 for children 17 and younger.

• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.

If you go

What: "Forever Plaid" a musical from the Western Nevada Musical Theater Company

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights with matinees at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sundays through April 9.

Where: Marlette Hall in the Cedar Building on the Western Nevada Community College Campus, 2201 W. College Parkway.

Tickets: $18 for general admission, $16 for students and seniors and $14 for children ages 17 and under. Advanced reservations recommended.

Call: 445-4249