Staff
In an effort to bring back the past, Shirley Austin is calling on Sweet Home businesses, organizations and groups to put together different acts for the annual Chips ’n’ Splinters variety show.
The show will be held on July 8 and proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Club.
The show historically was part of Sportsman’s Holiday. It has returned in recent years, although last year it was not formally Chips ’n’ Splinters. Instead, Austin directed the “Switcheroo Review” as a fund-raising program for the Sweet Home Auditorium Remodel Committee. It featured performances by leading citizens, some dressed in drag, which essentially was very much like the old Chips ’n’ Splinters shows.
“Last year, with our Switcheroo Review, I had several comments that it reminded them of the old Chips ’n’ Splinters,” Austin said. “That’s what we want to bring back, the fun of Chips ’n’ Splinters. I want people to have fun.
“We want to get businesses and organizations in town to participate by being in the show.”
She is asking that they come up with ideas, from comedy skits to music and dancing, to create a variety show in the tradition of Chips ’n’ Splinters.
“We want to make it kind of like the old Chips ’n’ Splinters, from what I understand of it,” Austin said, adding that it will be a sort of friendly competition.
“I’ve actually got a lot of skit ideas,” Austin said, so if a group wants to participate but needs inspiration, its members are welcome to call or send her an email.
It’s going to take time for performers to practice, she said. “The sooner we can get this going the better.”
Organizing the show are Austin, Wendi Melcher, Mike Hall and Bryan Gardner.
For more information or to get involved, call Austin at (541) 409-8957 or email her at [email protected] or call Melcher at (541) 498-4813 or email [email protected].