Two Nights of One Hit Wonders

Are you looking for a vintage feel this Valentine’s day? Then you should head over to the Saginaw Choral Society website and pick up a ticket for today’s showing of their Musical Misfits production. It runs today at three pm at the newly re-opened Court Street Theatre. Don’t wait until the end of this article because by the time you have read through they may be sold out. Not only will you end up having Valentine plans you will get to be a part of the audience that experienced all the nostalgia and magic that happened Friday night.

The grand re-opening of Saginaw staple, Court Street Theatre, was beholden to a packed house. Arrive early and grab a close seat, the closer the seat the closer to the joy that was all encompassing for those in attendance as well as on stage. That is one trait that manifests itself in most Saginaw Choral Society events. Whether it is candlelight tunes of jukebox heroes, the singers are up there enjoying every moment.

Even though I am an elder-millennial I like to think my musical tastes span all decades and I was delighted to find some new favorites on the set list. The theme for the show is one hit wonders, A Jukebox Journey Through the Best One-Offs of the ’60s & ’70s. You may be surprised to find one of your favorite songs was a one hit wonder. And like this writer you may also walk away adding a few new tunes to your playlist. Currently I am listening to “Harper Valley P.T.A.”, a song that Stephanie Bale brought to life with a flourish of mini skirt and major vocal chops. 

Each song was accompanied by an emcee who was playing the character of DJ, queuing up each song with a story or joke. Next to the music I found this very enjoyable as it seemed the singers were laughing at the jokes right along with us. Grab some retro snacks and cocktails from the lobby because you will not want to leave your seat once Danielle Davis comes on the stage with “Rescue Me”.

Everyone deserves a standing ovation. You can tell the show was carefully crafted, and worked in harmony, from the live four person band, to the soloists and the ensemble singers. The chosen songs will have you clapping and swaying in your seat, that is a given. Jim Smerdon brings the energy in the theatre up even more when he takes the stage for “In the summertime”. 

When intermission comes along you will be excited that there is still another half of music. And even the last tune, the perfectly chosen “Goodbye”, a hit song from the Starland Vocal Band, will leave you wanting more. But like a one hit wonder, there is only one show left and it is today.

So grab someone you love and grab a remaining ticket to the show today. Not only will you still have time to grab dinner after you will witness a unique vintage Valentine’s experience. If you can’t make it today, however, The Choral Society has two more upcoming events in their season.