For the Antigo Times

“The Letter” dates from WWII when a letter is discovered in the tank near the Wabeno Legion Hall. It was written by one of the Andrews Sisters to the driver, who was wounded and whom they visited at a field hospital in Italy. He forgot to get it out of the tank when he was reassigned, and it has lain hidden since the war. After the discovery the town elected officials decide to find out more about the man addressed in the letter and give it to his living relatives only to discover he is still alive. Inviting him to Wabeno for a civic affair and publicity opportunity, he flashes back to the war, the Andrews Sisters and the story unfolds. This production features music of The Andrews Sisters, Bing Crosby and Benny Goodman.  Some of the songs are: Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree, Rum and Coca Cola, Moonlight Serenade, In the Mood, Shoo Shoo Baby, Swinging On a Star, Hold Tight, Tuxedo Junction, Sing, Sing, Sing, Chattanooga Choo Choo and many more.

A live 20-piece Big Band will be accompanying The Andrews Sisters and cast.  A dance floor will be ready for those that want to cut-a-rug!  Displays and artifacts from our armed forces will be available for viewing as well as many more activities.  The production will be a tribute to those that have served our country and will be recognized at each performance.

This show was specifically written for Wabeno Area Players by Dr. Daniel Boatright.  Dr. Boatright is a retired professor from the University Oklahoma and now resides in the northern woods of Wisconsin during the summer months.  Dr. Boatright has written numerous plays, reviews and reader theater selections.  Many have been performed exclusively by and for Wabeno Area Players.

Area Veteran Organizations and groups are encouraged to contact Wabeno Area Players if they would like to participate in this exceptional event.  Please call Linda at (405) 361-8294 or Josh (715) 889-1606 for more information about the event.

We are also seeking WWII (1939-1945) items and artifacts to display all weekend long.  We will have a secure weatherproof area for all items and displays.  We want to share the heritage and history of WWII to all that attend the event.

If anyone wishes to volunteer during the performances we have many roles to fill (ticket sellers, parking attendants, table staff, bartenders and many more.

Any businesses, groups or individuals interested in sponsoring this event honoring our veterans please contact Wabeno Area Players at [email protected], www.wabenoareaplayers.org or call (715) 889-1606/(715) 473-5466.  Tickets can also be purchased from these numbers for $15 each.

The Letter

May 25-28, 2017 – 7:00pm

Firefighter’s Park, Wabeno