A sudden change in circumstances draws Elvis impersonator Casey into the world of drag in Center Repertory Company’s “The Legend of Georgia McBride,” performing Nov. 4-26 at Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.What do you do when you lose your job, the rent is overdue and your wife announces she’s pregnant? Such is the dilemma for Casey, an Elvis impersonator, in Center Rep’s “The Legend of Georgia McBride.
“It’s exciting to see the show in Walnut Creek and exciting that they brought in local drag talent to execute it,” said Chris Steele, a drag consultant, choreographer and dramaturg. “I’ve wanted to work with director Elizabeth Carter for some time, and I’m grateful she brought me into the rehearsal process so early. I deeply admire, respect and have been inspired by her directing.”
Steele said Carter helped set the tone with the songs she selected, trying to represent as many types and perspectives of drag as possible while still creating the burlesque atmosphere of the show. “It gives you permission over your own life,” added Steele. “Something we can all relate to and, ideally, take something away with us.”
While Turner doesn’t appear in the play, he is often referred to and was widely known as the brother of the governor of Tennessee who would kidnap Black men and force them into labor on his chain gang.The incredible vertical dance company Bandaloop celebrates its expanded West Oakland home base with a free community event Nov. 12 at its studios located on 1601 18th St.