The Panhandle Players successfully entertained audiences earlier this month with a captivating tribute to the iconic Carol Burnett Show, showcasing the timeless comedic brilliance and setting high expectations for local theatre.
Originally debuting in September 1967, The Carol Burnett Show swiftly became one of television’s most beloved comedies, amassing nearly two dozen Emmy Awards and multiple Golden Globes over its impressive 11-year run. With its ensemble cast including Tim Conway, Harvey Korman, and Vicki Lawrence, the series set the bar for television variety shows, leaving behind a legacy tough to emulate.
Faced with the challenge of following such monumental footsteps, the Panhandle Players embraced the opportunity to present several skits from the classic show. The ensemble cast, nearly two dozen talented performers, stepped up to the plate, delivering not only laughter but also heartfelt homage to Burnett’s work.
Featuring actors like Bob Inguagiato, Tammy Owen, Josh Hall, Faith Lynch, and Sarah Madson, among many others, their performance was marked by excellent timing and enthusiasm. Each cast member shone through the skits, bringing infectious energy to the stage.
The directors, including Valentine, Tate, Judy Loftus, Dan Floyd, and Graham Dewsbury, set the tone for the evening, organizing 11 skits and ensuring every detail was polished to perfection. The collaborative spirit extended both on stage and behind the scenes, fostering camaraderie and creativity.
The production showcased remarkable ingenuity, cleverly transforming props for comedic effect. An example was the impressive recreation of the backdrop used by Burnett’s character, Starlett O’Hara, from the parody skit “Went With the Wind.” Local schools donated materials, which the cast ingeniously modified to match the original, adding a nostalgic twist to the performance.
Sound effects were intricately timed, adding layers of hilarity to the dialogue-filled skits. Audience members were thoroughly entertained from start to finish, with one attendee remarking, "I’m so glad we had this time together,” referencing both the spirit of the performance and the legacy of the show itself.
The Panhandle Players not only honored the original material but also spurred excitement for their next production of Little Shop of Horrors, with auditions set for January 5, 6, and 7 at the Chapman Theatre. This new venture promises to engage audiences with familiar favorites like Seymour Krelborn, Audrey, and the infamous plant!
With their dedication to celebrating classic performances like those from the Carol Burnett Show, the Panhandle Players continue to nurture appreciation for theatre within the community, blending nostalgia with fresh talent eager to take the stage.
