Family-style show features local talent

The Dakota Organization is getting the community involved in a variety show, which features about 14 acts mainly performed by residents of Carson Valley.

"It's a good old-fashioned Ed Sullivan show," said Dakota president Dave Anderson, of the family-oriented show which will be presented Dec. 15 at the CVIC Hall in Minden.

The show, that features local actor Mike Maloney as the master of ceremonies, will include acts such as singing, instrumental music, dance, comedy, dramatic sketches, a bell choir and a martial arts demonstration.

"This is a community event showcasing the local talent of all ages," said Anderson.

The event is a fundraiser for the Alzheimer's Association.

"This is a pure fundraiser," said Anderson. "Everything will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association.

"It's a chance for Carson Valley to become familiar with what we're doing in our association, as far as fundraising for the Alzheimer's Association. We want the community to be involved."

As always, the organization is looking for actor possibilities to join the theater company.

"Whenever you're on stage, whenever you're involved in a production, you're always auditioning," said Dakota founder Teri Levy.

The organization has produced two plays since its inception in January. It is planning its next production in March, and will release that information in the coming weeks.

"The 2007 season is virtually set," said Levy.

Dakota's first play, presented in February, "Same Time, Next Year," contained two actors, the next production in July, "Lips Together, Teeth Apart," had four acting parts, and the March production will probably have even more.

"Our focus is on quality," said Anderson, "and we're trying to gradually increase our quality."

The Dakota Organization strives to produce plays that are more obscure, not just the "old favorites."

"We try to choose plays that will challenge the audience a little bit," said Levy. "They're good stories. We're going to be doing comedies. We wanted to present something that is different."

"We've gotten good feedback," said Anderson. "We're excited with our choices."

The Dakota Organization has recently opened a business office at 1669 Lucerne St. in the Minden Village.

"We're grateful for the support we've gotten so far," said Levy.

A representative from the Carson Valley Arts Council will be at the variety show to answer questions regarding a future performing arts center in the Valley.

The performance begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8 general admission and $5 for children 5 and younger. One hundred percent of the net proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association of Northern Nevada. Tickets will be available for sale in advance and at the door. For ticket information, visit the Web site www.thedakotaorganization.com or call 450-1186.

n Jo Rafferty can be reached at jrafferty@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 210.