They’ve got LED light shows, “Saturday Night Live” sketches, adorable kids singing, a full complement of dancers and even some cheerleaders. But the number one goal this weekend at Marathon Community Theatre is to whisk audiences away for a few hours of laughter.
“One Weekend Only: Lights, Laughter, Action” takes the stage this Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. It’s the biggest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit community theater that’s spent the last 24 months navigating expensive, but necessary, building upgrades along with a $300,000 roof replacement.
A silent auction and cocktail hour precede the show each night starting at 7 p.m., with items including sports memorabilia, hotel stays, animal encounters and more. Fresh off his run in “The Odd Couple,” local radio legend Steve Miller will take the helm of a live auction for higher-dollar items.
Once patrons take their seats, it’s an 18-number program hosted with sass by the show’s co-directors Aubrey Anthony Kehn, Michelle Macoskey and Destiny Lee as The Plastics — yes, THOSE plastics from “Mean Girls.” The annual variety show lives up to its promise, pairing vocal performances with one-of-a-kind acts like speed painting from local artist Shannon Wiley and an audience-participation “workout class” with a zany instructor.
“Directing this year’s One Weekend Only has been equal parts joy, chaos and enlightening,” said Macoskey. “Collaborating with my two brilliant co-directors pushed us to try new ideas, take good risks and trust the magic of teamwork. I’m incredibly proud of our performers, and I hope everyone comes out to see what happens when talent, trust and a little theatrical courage join together on stage.”
After the show, tickets include a complimentary buffet and champagne toast catered by Lazy Days South and Porky’s Bayside Restaurant.
Tickets for “One Weekend Only” are $45 apiece, available at marathontheater.org or by calling 305-743-0994.
Photos by ALEX RICKERT/Keys Weekly
