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Triangle Downtowner Magazine

Be Mine, Beehive

May 13, 2019 11:40AM ● By Lamarr Fowlkes

A flashback to the past, when the Mod culture was the God of culture, Beehive: The 60’s Musical shakes what its momma (shout-out to all the mothers celebrating Mother’s Day tomorrow) gave it as it transverses though the pivotal decade of the 60’s.

An era defining mood setting highlighted by video clips and commercials projected onto the set walls of 60’s stalwarts such as former President John F. Kennedy set the stage for the all-female cast’s arrival. Clad in matching dresses in a myriad of colors, the group energized the crowd with their constant motion and flowing delivery of lines. Lead by firecracker Wanda (Yolanda Rabrun), the ladies transitioned through the hit singles of the decade with finesse and moxie. Audience participation was encouraged as the crowd engaged in sing-alongs and several patrons were selected from their seats to boogie with the performers. Standout moments included a rendition of American girl group Angels’ “My Boyfriend’s Back” complete with an accompanying pillow fight, as well as cast member Pattie (Casey Wenger-Schulman) serenading a seated patron with American girl group The Ronettes' “Baby I Love You.”

Intersected amidst the fun were more somber notes, the second act covering the deaths of JFK as well as civil right leader Martin Luther King. Marking the fight for women’s rights, the ladies also engaged in several costume and hair changes to match the topic of focus. But the combination of Girl Power, classic music, in sync dancing and vast energy, the production managed to keep the affair engaging and light-hearted, a refreshing treat that would make anyone swoon.