Founded in 1990 by acclaimed producer Riff Markowitz, the show features the music, comedy and dance of Mid-Century America performed by a cast that are all 55 and older. This innovative program actually made the Guinness Book of World Records for that fact. Each year, the Follies is attended by approximately 170,000, including tourists from across the globe, as well as residents from all over California, from owners of Indian Wells real estate and other Coachella Valley cities, to San Francisco locals, Angelenos and San Diegans. The Follies were the subject of the documentary, Still Kicking: The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies, which was nominated for Best Short Subject Documentary at the 70th Academy Awards.
The cast includes international vaudeville acts and internationally renowned guest stars, ranging in age from 55 to 83. This year is the 22nd edition and features some very exciting stars with timeless appeal, including the debut of celebrated vocalist Lorna Luft from November 1 through December 31, which will be a tribute to her mother, Judy Garland. From January 8 through March 9, 2013, multi-million selling recording artist Lou Christie will make his debut, and Lesley Gore, the singer of classic hits like “It’s My Party,” and “You Don’t Own Me” will make a return visit from March 12 through May 19. The Follies is emceed by Markowitz, in his signature style that blends satire and Old World savoir-faire. It makes sense that this show is so popular among owners of Indio, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells Real estate properties.
This year’s all-new show, “Dance to the Music” pays homage to the “black and white” era of American Bandstand and all its dance crazes. In addition, all season long the show will include the world’s greatest hula-hoop artist, Mat Plendl. At age 13, he started his career as the U.S. National Hula Hoop Champion, which included several appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and NBA half-time performances, among many others across the globe.
Those looking for Palm Springs homes will benefit from the proximity to the Plaza Theatre, which ensures they’ll be able to find time to catch this extraordinary show and each of its guest stars.