I am writing this on Monday, March 4, and I am sure I am not alone in feeling a bit tired after the Follies. The cast and crew have been busy for many weeks in preparation of the four performances that started on Thursday the 29th of February. It was only the second time that the Follies have ever been performed on a Leap Day.
The audiences were outstanding and the cast and crew were so grateful to have so many friend and family members of the Follies come to watch their efforts to entertain them with song, dance and laughter.
There was outstanding new talent added to the 2024 show, so many I am fearful that I might overlook mentioning anybody. Just realize you missed some truly outstanding talent if you were unable to attend any of the performances.
The group voted for three new board members so congratulations go to Sandy Flowers, Laurie Schmidt and Don Smith they each won a three year term on the board. Special thanks go to Paulie Geiselhart, Kym Harris and Claire Harris who are leaving the board after their terms in office.
Congratulations to Follies “Charlie Award” winner Patsy Chevrette. The award was presented to her at the Follies celebration dinner last night. Charlie celebrates her for the exceptional contributions she has given to the group over the years. The statue, in the likeness of famous comedian Charlie Chaplin, holds a special place in the winner’s home until the next season’s production.
I want to share a little bit of history about this prized possession of the Follies organization. This fun group of Waldenites came up with what I like to think of as their spirit award. The first recipients of this prestigious award were Carole Caplan & Carolyn Wagner in 1987. It has been given to a member or, at times, several members of the cast and crew every year since his debut. He has been through some tough times during his travels around Walden and suffered a serious injury in 2019 and Rhonda Gann did a spectacular emergency repair with a somber warning that he was still extremely fragile. The group was lucky enough to find a exact replica statue in 2020 after yet another mishap damaged the old boy beyond repair.Â
Another shout out to the Follies exclusive sponsor Montgomery Dental Center!
Karla Seidule may be reached with Walden news at karlaseidule@icloud.com
