Note
From July 2017 SDHS newsletter:
Bill [Simmons] took a number of photos relating to a production called "SHOWBOAT" which occurred in July of 1958. The idea was novel and quite daring for the community. A special stage for the production was built between the Pavilion and the Butler Hotel -the area of Cook Park today. The photos and this article from the July 11 Commercial Record tell the story:
Showboat Big Attraction for Villages
The showboat production of "Steamboat Round the Bend" opens a 10-night engagement this Friday night on the outdoor stage next door to the Big Pavilion.
This is the biggest attraction Saugatuck and Douglas have had for many years. Showboat should draw more business into the two villages than they have enjoyed for a long, long time. Its format has been proven successful. The professional talent Click on the image to see the high-definition photos!engaged for the two-hour show is first rate.
A considerable sum of money has been invested in preparing for the first production. Advertising has been poured into the area for 50 miles each way.
The Associated Civic Clubs of Saugatuck and Douglas are sponsors and equal participants in the net profits. They want both both editions of the Showboat to be highly successful, for there is much they can do in both villages with their shares. They want crowds and crowds to come here to see the shows (and patronize businesses in both communities.)
"From every person in Saugatuck and Douglas and the area, we ask your cooperation," said Mrs. Theodore Maas, chairman of the club's organization. "See the show - you'll enjoy it. Tell your friends. Help us fill the grandstand nightly so that the Showboat will be successful - and profitable for everyone. Help us make Showboat the biggest vacation feature along Lake Michigan this year -and every year."
The net proceeds went to local Civic Organizations. I am not sure if the show made money, but I do know that it was never done again.
by Jack SheridanNote
From the July 18, 1958 Commercial Record:
VILLAGES LAUNCH FIRST SHOWBOAT
Pavilion management were hosts last Friday night at the seasons most brilliant party.
“Everyone” was there, guests gathered from far and wide for cocktails and a buffet supper in the Ozark room. “Emmet" the new chef is acclaimed a master.
At 8:30 p.m, the guests were seated on the Pavilion balcony to the south, lights were lowered and spotlights shone on the Island Queen as she made an impressive entrance with her cargo of the evening’s entertainers*
As the Showboat production of “Steamboat ’Round the Bend” nears the end of its 10-night engagement in the open air theater on the banks of Kalamazoo Lake next door to the Big Pavilion, the consensus is that the show is the finest ever staged in western Michigan Final performance will be Sunday night.
“Steamboat 'Round the Bend” has been acclaimed by regional newspapers as a brilliant and spectacular entertainment. The acts comprising the show produced and directed by Reginald Voorhees furnish tuneful music, happy comedy, sparkling novelty and great dancing.
Ernie McLean as interlocutor introduces the acts, takes an active role in the singing numbers and leads the performers through an unusually fine entertainment of^ two hours. Topping the cast are such acts as The Rhythm Kings, best dance trio on the stage today; the sensational Amandis troupe; Curry, Byrd and LeRoy, a continuous laugh; the Musical Wades and Jackie Burtell, a spectacular musical group; and the others, all furnishing top entertainment.
As dusk falls, the show gets an inspiring start as the Island Queen, with Dick Hoffman at the wheel, comes toward the stage from Kalamazoo Lake, under a pair of strong spotlights. The colorful troupe, singing “Here Comes the Show- boat,” sets the mood of the evening for the audience. From then until the final number, the fine entertainment by the all-professional cast gives the audiences a wonderful two hours.
“Steamboat ’Round the Bend” will continue nightly through next Sunday evening. It is the “you mustn’t miss it” kind of a show.
As a footnote to the first Show- boat production, the work of the behind-the-scenes workers has kept the mechanics perfect. Producer Reginald Voorhees has a capable staff headed by Henry Dorn as electrician and Juke Van Os on the audio system.
Sponsoring civic clubs of Saugatuck and Douglas have been helping as ushers and in distributing programs. This week representatives undertook a telephone campaign, phoning everyone in the villages and the area about the show.
Some youngsters found a hole in the fence and in the old-time manner of their grandfathers and fathers made a try at getting into the show. Occasional “peepers” watched the show through the woven fence. In comparison to them was the owner of a cruiser docked next to the stage with a good view from his boat. No “free loader” was he. He had a party of six aboard one night, but first he went to the box office and bought six tickets.
Ev Thomas, who has done many fine jobs as master of ceremonies, is at his best in that role with the Showboat. He opens the show each night.
