It’s your last chance to catch one of the most high-energy shows of the season as El Dorado Musical Theatre’sBye Bye Birdieheads into its final weekend on stage at Folsom’s Harris Center for the Arts. After a week of sold-out performances, this lively musical comedy wraps up its run January 31 with just two shows remaining—and local theatergoers won’t want to miss it.
A loving send-up of 1950s America, small-town adolescence, and the early days of rock and roll,Bye Bye Birdiehas thrilled audiences since opening last weekend with its colorful choreography, teen humor, and timeless score. EDMT’s production features a standout youth cast ranging from age 8 to 20, all performing with the polish and presence that have made the company one of the region’s most respected youth theater programs.
Set in the fictional town of Sweet Apple, Ohio, the story follows teen heartthrob Conrad Birdie, who is drafted into the Army just as his career is soaring. As a publicity stunt, his manager Albert and Albert’s long-suffering secretary Rosie arrange for Birdie to give “one last kiss” on live television to an unsuspecting teenage fan—Kim MacAfee. What unfolds is a swirl of teenage chaos, parental confusion, small-town spectacle, and plenty of laughs, all set to a toe-tapping Broadway score.
The musical originally debuted on Broadway in 1960 starring Dick Van Dyke and Chita Rivera and has remained a favorite for theaters worldwide ever since. The EDMT version, directed by Kat DeLapp, brings that classic charm to the Harris Center stage with modern flair, guided by choreographer Maddie Jantzen and vocal director Scott Rivers. Costumes by Karen McConnell and production oversight by Zoi Jones add to the show’s professional quality and mid-century visual appeal.
Audiences have been treated to memorable musical numbers like “Put On a Happy Face,” “Kids,” “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “The Telephone Hour,” and “One Last Kiss.” These numbers are brought to life by an enthusiastic ensemble that delivers both laughs and heart. The show’s smart, fast-paced script, originally penned by Michael Stewart with music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Lee Adams, provides plenty of moments for both leads and supporting players to shine.
The final performances include two closing day shows onSaturday, January 31 at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., both held on Stage One at Harris Center for the Arts, located on the Folsom Lake College campus. Earlier this week, EDMT also presented special school-day matinees, giving hundreds of local students a chance to experience live musical theater.
Bye Bye Birdieis presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.
Tickets are available for the final shows and can be purchased online or at the Harris Center box office. To reserve seats or view availability, visitTHE HARRIS CENTER EVENT PAGE HERE.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Broadway, love a good teen comedy, or simply want to support local youth performers, this Main Stage production is a must-see before the curtain falls.
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