In an effort to put some “fun” back in “fundraising,” the Tower Theatre Foundation launches its first major event to celebrate and underwrite the important role the nonprofit plays in the cultural life of Central Oregon. The Bend Follies is a lighthearted, fast-paced variety show starring prominent business, civic, educational and entertainment leaders showing off their singing, dancing and joke-telling skills. The Follies opens Friday, April 26 and, appropriately, closes the next night, Saturday, April 27.

The Follies will spotlight performances (we use the term loosely) by Bob Shaw, Mary Barackman (a.k.a. Little Caesar’s Lady), Tim Casey, Mosley Wotta, Maralyn Thoma, Betsy Warriner, Chuck Arnold, Lava City Roller Dolls, Kristi Miller, Pamela Hulse Andrews, Michael LaLonde and many others. Both evenings will have silent and live auctions, featuring a condo in Cabo. And exclusive to the Follies will be opportunities for audience members to use cash, checks and credit cards to “vote” for their favorite act to receive a “Gratuitous Standing Ovation” each night.

“The Bend Follies is cheaper than the Book of Mormon, and closer than the High Desert Museum,” said Ray Solley, executive director of the Tower Theatre Foundation, and executive producer of the fundraiser. “We just want everyone to feel good about Bend, the Tower, their somewhat-talented friends and neighbors – and to leave the event with very little money left in their wallets.”

Hosted by Donna James (The Mountain 99.7 FM) and David Simpson (The Producers; KPOV’s Big Screen/Little Screen), the Bend Follies can be described as Saturday Night Live meets a fifth grade pageant. But we’d prefer you think of it as another excuse to hang out downtown with friends.

541-317-0700 or TowerTheatre.org.

WARNING: The Bend Follies will contain adult material, and an adolescent sense of humor.