When the multinational cast of Up with People takes the stage inside the Statesboro High School auditorium on Friday at 7 p.m. the audience will find something for virtually every musical taste and interest.
Cast members arrived in Statesboro Monday and are doing community service with local service agencies, helping Habitat for Humanity and other activities all week, in addition to preparing for Friday’s show.
Long before “American Idol” began discovering and refining new talent or “High School Musical” tapped into the exuberance of young ensemble casts, Up with People pioneered these attributes while touring the world with their message of global cooperation and goodwill.
Established in 1965, Up with People is celebrating its 50th anniversary with an all-new production entitled “The Journey.” The show features the energy and talent of a cast and staff of about 100 representing 20 countries. The live two-hour performance includes both original and popular music and is a blend of feature soloists, full cast production numbers, fast-moving choreography and colorful costumes.
“The Journey will mark the 50th anniversary, while acknowledging that UWP’s mission is an ongoing journey, and is as relevant in 2015 as it was in 1965,” said Eric Lentz, Up with People’s executive producer. “The show will feature historical highlights from throughout Up with People’s existence, including pop medleys from the last five decades, and a medley of iconic international dances. Original UWP songs will introduce timeless themes, and include messages of hope, movement, peace, and an overriding sense of motivation to go out and make a positive change in the world.”
In addition to Statesboro, the cast’s fall tour includes 20 cities in the U.S., Europe and Mexico. In the past, casts have performed at four Super Bowl halftime shows, appeared at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and during the opening celebration of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses’ Rose Parade.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 students, seniors & children and are on now sale at Averitt Center for the Arts.
Up with People’s visit to Statesboro is supported by ticket sponsors Debbie and Lee Walker, Thigpen, Lanier,Westerfield & Deal, CPAs; Ashley and Todd Manack, the Averitt Center, McCook’s Pharmacy, Statesboro Rotary Club, Statesboro Properties - Nick Propps, community partner Statesboro ENT & Sinus Center; with media support provided by the Statesboro Herald and Northland Communications.