Will Rogers entertained audiences spanning several generations before his untimely and nation-shocking demise in a plane crash. He was endeared to America through his natural wit and accessible humorâ¦not to mention his vaudeville, columns, radio shows, movies and stage work. Rogers was even an ace of the lariat—something some working cowboys find difficult to master. Seems appropriate for someone so universally appealing and talented that three generations of actors should perform in the Garland Summer Musicals' The Will Rogers Follies. Patty Granville (namesake of the Granville Arts Center), her daughter Nicole and her granddaughter Rachel will perform roles in the musical production honoring the former "Ambassador at Large of the United States." Rogers was beloved by both the young and their elders; why not represent? The Follies feature dance routines and musical performances akin to those of Ziegfeld and as lively as Rogers himself. Shows are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, as well as 2 p.m. Sunday at the Granville Arts Center, 300 N. 5th St. in Garland. Tickets are $19 to $25. Call 972-205-2790 or visit garlandsummermusicals.org.
July 25-Aug. 3, 2008