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Professional Theater News:
SAUGATUCK – “Energetic” becomes an understatement when Adam Mellema hits the stage Saturday, March 24 with his latest presentation for mature listeners, “Remembering World War II.” The presentation, which combines choreography, song, humor and drama to create a highly entertaining performance, draws us back to this era through oral histories, each story capturing a unique piece of the early 1940’s experience. Mellema brings to life the stories of real men and women in their own words. This poignant collection has been warmly received as both a gripping history lesson and a joyful trip down memory lane.
In “Remembering World War II,” we meet such people as Meyer Fishbein, a slacker engineer who dreamed big and made the army proud. There’s James A. Tinker, a very special West Michigan gentleman who shares his experiences while he ages from 18 to 75 right before our eyes! Another is Evelyn Sholley – Mellema’s own grandmother- whose adventurous narrative celebrates the role of women in the war effort, and provides a look at the importance of connectedness with our own family history. These are a part of the author’s remarkable collection of World War II narratives: Stories of heroes that beg to be told and need to be heard!
Mellema is a West Michigan native. He grew up in Kentwood (Grand Rapids) and received a B.A. in Theatre from Calvin College. He also studied acting at The (Goodman) Theatre School in Chicago. The Grand Rapids Press has described Adam as “a gifted performer with a wonderful grasp of expressive language.”
Mellema’s work takes him across the country, spending about half his time on the road performing. He splits his remaining time between Grand Rapids and Los Angeles, where – when not telling tales to LIVE audiences – he’s bringing them to the screen as a children’s television producer. Mellema works with Plastic Cow Productions in L.A. and is co producer of “Come On Over,” the new kid’s show spectacular from Enthusiastic Productions, which airs Saturday mornings on WOTV 4,Grand Rapids. He has also worked with Disney Productions, including “High School Musical.”
“Remembering World War II” is a one night only performance. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
General Admission is $15.
All veterans are cordially invited to a Veteran’s Pre-Show Reception. Come meet Adam and share your own experiences with this delightful and talented performer.
The Red Barn Playhouse is located on Blue Star and 63rd Street, one quarter mile east of Exit 41 off I-196/US31 in Saugatuck.
Call 269-857-5300 for more information.
About the Author: Don Calamia
