The follies return for 'Another Day in Paradise'

Jul. 26—HERMITAGE — "Another Day in Paradise" is the promise for anyone attending the annual Mercer County Follies in August.

The 19th annual follies carries the "Another Day in Paradise" theme for the shows at 6 p.m. Aug. 3 and 2 p.m. Aug. 4 in Hickory High School auditorium.

The production is open to younger performers now, so it dropped the "senior" from its longtime name, the Mercer County Senior Follies.

Proceeds benefit the ARC of Mercer County after years of supporting the Mercer County Senior Center.

"We had a lot of requests in the past from younger performers who wanted to join the shows," said Maureen Murray-Jaklic, musical director. "The talent in this year's show is spectacular."

Many of the performers have appeared in other singing or acting groups in the tri-county area. The chorus, directed by Julie Kerr, includes almost 50 members in some numbers.

There are several dance numbers, including the popular "Toast of the Town Tappers," directed by choreographer Linda Lucas. An emotional, interpretive dance number to "Another Day in Paradise" centers on the plight of the homeless.

Hickory High School students also have a strong representation and will perform a rousing number from their school musical, "Fiddler on the Roof."

The show includes musical styles ranging from rock, pop, disco, doo-wop, country, hip hip with dances and more. Short comedy acts, put together by Paula Kudelko, are always popular among fans of the Follies.

Almost all the numbers focus on the theme "Paradise,k" and vary from satirical or comedic songs such as "Amish Paradise," "Redneck Paradise," and "Cheeseburger in Paradise. Also, versions of "Almost Paradise" and "Paradise" will have people reaching for their Kleenex.

The community has been very supportive of the follies since its birth in 2004 after Murray-Jaklic, her late mother Donna Murry, and Marilynn Moss, Michaleen Sasala, Bonnie Banick attended a similar-style show in Warren, Ohio. Even a two-year hiatus for the COVID-19 pandemic could not stop the return of the popular endeavor.

"The ARC of Mercer County does such amazing work and we are proud to help support that organization and the clients they serve," said Follies committee member Lynn Saternow. "That administration and staff truly help make life a little bit of paradise for so many others."

Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. They are available from any cast member or at the administrative office of the ARC of Mercer County, 850 N. Hermitage Road, Hermitage.