Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium was packed last night for a classic rock 'n' roll extravaganza. Smokey Joe's Caf+
a musical review featuring 41 rock 'n' roll songs composed by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, moved the audience to cheers, whistles and thunderous applause. The performance showcased classic songs, such as Hound Dog Yakety Yak Stand By Me and Love Potion #9
in a flashy, vivacious manner. The performances were breathtaking and flawlessly executed, defying the usual feel of a musical review. I don't usually like musical reviews
but I enjoyed this
audience member Josh George said. The performers sang each piece with enthusiasm and passion, holding out the final notes of songs well into the applause that inevitably followed each number. In addition to the wonderful performances, the show was well planned. Songs were arranged to provide a musical give-and-take conversation between several of the male and female performers. The clothing and moving set pieces complimented the performers' excellent dancing and singing by giving each song a unique feel. High powered performances of Jailhouse Rock
Fools Fall In Love and Teach Me How To Shimmy successfully combined song and dance with electrifying results. It's a really fun night. I would say that it's kind of like coming to a party and having a good time
said performer Laurie Saylor, the Shimmy girl. With numerous recognizable songs, the performance gave audience members a trip back to the '50s and '60s. Audience member Lauren Vollberg said the show was much better than advertised. The show, which opened in September, has traveled across the United States, giving more than 100 performances. The show began at 7:30 p.m. and ended at 9:30 p.m. Tickets were $10 for students, $18 for seniors and $20 for the general public. The Black Student Cultural Programming Board and the Performing Arts Series presented the show, which bills itself as Broadway's Longest Running Musical Review. Leiber and Stoller, who wrote all the songs featured in the show, are regarded as monumental influences on American popular music.
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