How to go
What: “Totally Tubular to the Max: A Tribute to the ’80s”
Where: Greenon High School, 3950 S. Tecumseh Road, Springfield
When: 7 p.m. Friday and 7 p.m. Saturday
Admission: $7
More info: Call 937-324-7444 or go online to the facebook page at www.facebook.com/ohioperformingartsinstitute.
So, like, get in your DeLorean car this weekend, rev it up to 88 miles per hour and go for it, totally.
The music and pop culture of the 1980s are coming back when the Ohio Performing Arts Institute presents “Totally Tubular to the Max: A Tribute to the ’80s” at 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday at Greenon High School.
From Broadway to the pop charts to television, a lot of arts defined the ’80s, and that’s what the Institute’s 80 youth performers, who weren’t even around then, will capture on stage.
Ohio Performing Arts Institute artistic director D. Scot Davidge confessed he grew up with the music of the 1960s, but knew another type of throwback was due for the show.
“My wife kept bugging me to do the ’80s since that’s when she grew up,” he said. “It’s fun to look back sometimes.”
Davidge said what clinched it for him was hearing parents of his students singing songs from the era in the waiting area during practices.
The show, which runs an hour and 40 minutes, will be packed with colorful costumes and ballet, jazz and tap dancing, hip-hop and choral music and more. Broadway tributes will include nods to “Cats” and “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” while songs from Journey, Cyndi Lauper and the Go-Go’s will be featured.
Davidge said the ’80s music staple “Broken Wings” by Mr. Mister has a personal connection, as he went to college and acted in “Grease” with the group’s lead singer, Richard Page.
Even the kids television series “Fraggle Rock” will get a shout-out.
“It’s great music and family fun in a hot-moving show what will jump off the stage and give you a warm feeling,” said Davidge, who said the proceeds will go back into the institute’s programs.
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