'Valiant Villain' entertains
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RONAN – “Boo, hiss,” roared the audience as villain Seymour S. Schnitzel stirred the crowd during the three-act performance of The Valiant Villain, Friday, Aug. 19 at the Ronan Performing Arts Center. The evening gave theatre-goers a look at the up-and-coming local performing arts group, Friends of the Ronan Performing Arts Center (FRPAC). The talent-packed performance began with ragtime pianist Dr. Frank Kuntz. He entertained guests as they seated themselves with his cheerful, peppy music.
When the show began, evening emcee Bob Ricketts serenaded the crowd with his accordion. He played a western song to warm up the crowd. Nine performances followed, including James Pettit’s tribute to all military branches, and “Jim-n-I,” (Stacey Lynne and Jim Steiner) singing a pair of heart-felt original songs.
“It’s way fun,” box office volunteer Nancy Williams said. “It’s really funny and very old-time feeling.”
Following the variety show, the short three-act western themed melodrama, “The Valiant Villain,” brought the crowd of more than 50 to the edges of their seats. The comedy-infused performance was all-laughs throughout.
Directed by Cammy Maughan and Neuman Ryan, the variety show was the first-ever for the new theatre company, FRPAC. Proceeds from the two-nights’ performances will be used to support Ronan School District’s programs, local community productions, and bring in other performing arts from outside the area.
“This is the nicest 500-seat theatre in the Northwest,” Ricketts said. “We need to use it.”
On December 10, the FRPAC will be back to present the “world-acclaimed” Rocky Mountain Ballet Theatre’s Christmas Dance Program.
