NEW ORLEANS (September 6, 2016)—The National WWII Museum’s live theater venue, BB’s Stage Door Canteen, today announced its 2016-2017 season featuring a new dynamic male vocal trio, a tribute to beloved Bob Hope and a debut production honoring WWII factory worker turned Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe. The thrilling season lineup serves as a tribute to the men and women who entertained the nation’s troops, while offering a unique opportunity to share the culture of the WWII era with new generations.
Staring BB’s Stage Door Canteen favorite Courtney Boe, “Pictures of Marilyn” is a captivating musical that follows Hollywood’s most iconic beauty from her days as a WWII factory worker to her triumphant establishment of Marilyn Monroe Productions. As Monroe becomes one of the biggest stars in the world, she continues to struggles to gain complete control of her life and career. Guests will watch as she overcomes the influences of lovers Joe DiMaggio and Arthur Miller, the controlling grip of studios and her own anxieties to achieve true independence. Featuring a cast of eight, this original production will show at the Canteen from October 7 to November 27.
Marilyn Monroe isn’t the iconic only star featured at the Canteen this fall—“Thanks for the Memories: Bob Hope and His All-Star Pacific Tour” returns to Stage Door on September 16. The show, which is an epic tribute to Hope and the stars he took to war-zone islands during World War II, features 13 cast members that bring to life the sounds of Judy Garland, The Andrews Sisters, Frances Langford and Hope himself. “Thanks for the Memories” will run through October 2.
“We’re thrilled to host shows that honor the legacy of iconic celebrities that entertained Americans overseas and on the Home Front during the WWII era,” said Victoria Reed, The Bob & Dolores Hope Director of Entertainment. “This season at the Canteen will include a compelling schedule of original shows, as well as returning favorites and several new repertory shows. We’re also excited to debut The Vic-Tones, a new male vocal trio with their own distinctive sound.”
The Vic-Tones are the newest addition to the Museum’s entertainment roster and the talented trio of singers celebrate the of music of the 1940s by performing harmonic vocal stylings of ageless classics such as “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” “Pistol Packin Mama,” “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “I’ll be Seeing You.” Museum visitors can stop in for a Wednesday matinee performance by The Vic-Tones from September through November 2016, and January through June 2017.
The Victory Belles will return to the Canteen for “A Vintage Christmas” on December 2. The trio, along with Tom Hooks as Burl Ives, will present musical favorites such as “Do You Hear What I Hear,” “I’ll be Home for Christmas” and “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” During the month of December, BB’s Stage Door Canteen will also host Teddy Bear Tea—the perfect holiday experience to share with children and grandchildren, featuring delicious food and sweet treats, lively music from the Belles and a special teddy bear gift for all children in attendance.
Following the Christmas holiday, the Museum will present its annual New Year’s Eve celebration featuring the Victory Swing Orchestra, and then kick off 2017 with a special Valentine’s Day show presenting beautiful renditions of 1940s romantic hits. The spring line-up also includes Neil Simon’s “Biloxi Blues” and “Ain’t Misbehavin’: The Fats Waller Musical Show.”
Tickets for the 2016-2017 BB’s Stage Door Canteen season are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting stagedoorcanteen.org or calling 504-528-1943. For group rates, call 504-528-1944 x 222. Advance purchase is recommended for individual show tickets.
BB’s Stage Door Canteen presents a wonderful weekly series of unique entertainment, showcasing the songs, style, stars and spirit of this incomparable era. Enjoy evening and matinee performances of headliner acts, signature musical productions, big bands, dancing, the Victory Belles and more—plus preshow dinner or bunch by The American Sector Restaurant + Bar.
The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that future generations will know the price of freedom, and be inspired by what they learn. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America's National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifices of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and served on the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-528-1944 or visit nationalww2museum.org.