It’s time to gather once again with island neighbors, both new and old, for a night filled with smiles, laughter, music, and heartwarming moments, at a variety show called “CHRCH.”
The show — remembered by many from a previous incarnation that ran on Vashon from 2008 to 2012, is back, with organizers promising the same irresistible irreverence and celebration of Vashon’s proudly eccentric community.
Fans of the original production will be glad to know that many of their favorite cast members, writers, and characters are making a comeback in the new show, along with talented newcomers.
The Holy Roller Radio Players will once again twist, spin, fluff, and fold fresh news from the heart of Vashon life, and a fresh new CHRCH House Band is poised to melodiously rise to the challenge as well.
And if rumors are to be believed, there will also be a preacher in the house.
Pews are filling up fast, so islanders are encouraged to get tickets, at openspacevashon.com, for two performances: one at 4 p.m. and a second at 7 p.m., on Sunday, Sept. 17, at Open Space, located at 18870 103rd Ave SW.
“This is a long-awaited moment,” said David Godsey, who emcees the show as the preacher. “That reverend in my head has been getting pretty noisy — it’s way past time to let him out.”
Godsey said he believes that the show’s message of unity and community is more needed than ever.
“I look around at how divided our culture is now,” he said. “I think it’s absolutely crucial to be able to laugh at ourselves and also feel gratitude for this community.”
Mik Kuhlman, another cherished member of the CHRCH team, said that islanders’ love for the show has not wavered in its absence.
“The love Vashon has for itself runs deep,” she said. “People lined up an hour and a half before doors opened at our last show. We just love to laugh at ourselves — and the ideas that actually make it to the stage are not the half of it.”
Jon Whalen, another performer in the show, said that he’s frequently been asked about the show.
“People stop me and ask, ‘What ever happened to that Sunday show at O-Space?’ Well, now I can tell them: ‘On September 17, you’re gonna find out,” he said.
Other ensemble members of the show include Lyn McManus, Jeanne Dougherty, Janet McAlpin, Jim Farrell, Brian Palermo, Lou Mangione, Karen Du Four Des Champs and Raena Joyce. A writing team, led by Brian Palermo and David Godsey, includes Jim Ferrell, Richard Rogers, as well as Godsey, Whalen and Kuhlman.
The band, by Kevin Northness, includes Michael Owcharuk on keys, Kate Olson on winds and Troy Lund on percussion.
Special musical guests will include Kevin Joyce, Lou Mangione, and the father-daughter duo of Steffon and Louisa Moody.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable afternoon and evening of entertainment and community spirit. Purchase tickets and find out more about the show at openspacevashon.com.
