From 1941 to 1990, comedian Bob Hope and the USO shows were synonymous for providing entertainment to our overseas military personnel. From the beginning of World War I to the end of Desert Storm, Bob and his troupe of musicians, comedians, and “American Beauties” were a vital part of the moral boost that these shows provided for our active military service men and women.
The USO Holiday Show at the Palace Theater in Luverne on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m. recreates those historic shows. The shows feature Las Vegas native Bill Johnson as the legendary Hope, and vocalists Jorie Kosel as Marilyn Monroe, Todd Eckhart as Frank, Elvis, and Dean, and Sheila Crowley with the Fulda Area Big Band. In addition to several of the famous Bob Hope monologs, over 20 favorite Holiday and Christmas songs will be presented in the fashion of the USO shows.
Selections will include “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “The Christmas Song,” “Santa Baby,” “O Holy Night,” “White Christmas,” “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” “Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and of course, “Thanks for the Memories.”
The Fulda Area Big Band, now in its 14th year of performing, is the house band for this show, recreating the sound of ‘Les Brown and his Band of Renown,’ which was the famous big band that traveled with Hope during all of the USO shows.
Tickets are available at the Palace Theater Box office, 507-283-4339.
