Follies full of family fun

Diane S. Kockler

The home-spun wit of American’s favorite humorist is coming to Des Moines this weekend as The Will Rogers Follies opens at the Des Moines Playhouse.

The Will Rogers Follies is a Tony Award-winning musical depicting Rogers’ life and commentary. The show is filled with catchy songs, showgirls and sharp observations on politics.

Rogers was famous for his rope twirling and lassoing act performed around the country in Wild West shows and vaudeville in the 1920s and 30s.

His act expanded to include a weekly newspaper column and a radio and motion picture career.

Director Bret Lassiter is certain this show will entertain audiences as well as Will Rogers could have himself.

“We really pulled out all the stops for this production,” Lassiter said. “We’re using incredibly lavish costumes and magnificent sets to match what audiences saw 70 years ago.”

Something a little different than the original show is the use of audience members. The role of Wiley Post will be filled by local personages.

Post is the aviator who was killed with Rogers in a plane crash in Alaska. While the character only has a few lines, there are quite a few folks who already agreed to sit in for a show.

The celebrity list includes Steve Karlin from KCCI-TV, Ed Wilson from WHO-TV, KLYF’s Kenn McCloud and Andy Elliot from KJJY.

“This show is a great night of entertainment for the whole family,” Lassiter said. “America’s favorite humorist will really make you laugh.”

The Will Rogers Follies will be performed at the Des Moines Playhouse September 13 through October 13. Tickets are $19 for adults and half-price for students. Call 515-277-6261 for exact times of shows.