Spotlight Fall 2016

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A Perfect Ending After

the show!

Dig into a tasty meal or delicious ice cream sundae...it’s oh so yummy!

Magazine Staff Publishing Editor Janis Gilmore

210 Hwy. 17 North North Myrtle Beach 4705 North Kings Hwy. Myrtle Beach

OFF

20de%r after the sehtoowr

k r your o our show tic ine. z y a h g a it w 13 ght M PLU 4 Spotli

Exec. Editor /Art Director Jordan Watkins

Spotlight Coordinator Katie Powell

Finance Director David Olive

Advertising Sales Marilyn Doss (843) 913-1457

SMOKING IS PROHIBITED IN THIS THEATER.

WARNING: The audio or video recording of any performance without the written permission of the management is prohibited. ©Copyright 2016. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Spotlight is published by Gilmore Entertainment Group, LLC.

The Calvin Gilmore Theater P. O. Box 7576 • Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 (843) 913 - 4000 • (800) 843 - 6779 www.TheCalvinGilmoreTheater.com www.SpotlightMagazineOnline.com 11/16

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Not valid with any other specials or discounts.

Discount not valid on holidays.

NO COUPON NECESSARY

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Artist Spotlight- Calvin Gilmore Theater Executive Producer and Director

Calvin Gilmore Producer/Director

Jeffrey Gilmore Musical Direction Kevin Hughes ‑ Band Gary Brown ­‑ Vocals

Costuming/Choreography

Margaret Rice Scott Production Manager Video Design/Costuming

Stage Manager

Sound Design

Wendy Sweetman

Vince White

Mike Cook

Cast

Gary Baker

Christie Templeton

Calvin Gilmore

Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

Vocals

Vocals, Guitar

Gary Brown

Drew Voivedich

Rita Gumm

Acoustic Guitar, Vocals, Mandolin, Lap Steel, Steel Guitar, Dobro

Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Dobro

Vocals, Piano

Kevin Hughes

Colton Cason

Vocals, Trumpet, Piano, Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar Vocals

Kevin White

Bass Guitar, Vocals, Acoustic Bass, Trumpet, Trombone, Piano

Keyboards, Piano, Guitar, Saxophone

Brad Long

Trent Wideman

Tangena Church

Hammered Dulcimer, Fiddle, Guitar, Mandolin, Comedy, Vocals, Xylophone

Emcee, Vocals, Guitar

Eric Gumm

Kym Shurbutt

Comedy, Guitar, Harmonica, Vocals, Electric Bass

Comedy, Guitar, Vocals

Chasity Croft

Jeff Simmons

Vocals

Megan Daniel Curtis Taryn Martin Brittany Sibert Mollie Daniel Rosa Rea

Chairman/CEO

Calvin Gilmore Jeffrey Gilmore

Percussion, Drums

Dancers

Michael Curtis Mark Clifford Brad Berry Drake Elkin Ethan Stewart

Vice President

Brian Daggett

Saxophone, Keyboards, Piano, Musical Arrangements & Charting, Brass Section Leader

All That!

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Lighting Design

Paul Sweetman

President

David Olive

Vice President, Director of Marketing

Jordan Watkins

Theater General Manager

Richard Scott

30 years of #1 entertainment The Attraction That Changed the Face of the Beach Forever

On June 2, 1986, when Calvin Gilmore opened his doors to the first paying customers of The Carolina Opry, few locals or vacationers knew what to expect.

Another country bar? Maybe Hee Haw at the beach?

What they got was a breath of fresh air. A sensational show in a cool theater. The kind of show you could take your kids or your grandmother to—but it also blew back the hair of your hard-toplease brother-in-law from New York. By late summer the word had gotten around that something spectacular was happening at The Carolina Opry, and the long line of patrons snaked out the door and around the building. Tour busses stood bumper to bumper.

Gilmore had only 12 entertainers and musicians to work with, himself among the number, but they packed a wallop.

Eight years l a t e r, t h e d a m broke. Imitators rushed to cash in on The Carolina Opry’s success. The Dixie Stampede (now Pirate’s Voyage) grabbed his kite tail by sharing his prime site in 10

Myrtle Beach. The investment group that created the Alabama Theater used Gilmore’s architect and his literal blueprints to build a theater. Burroughs and Chapin planned an entertainment complex that they hoped would corner the whole market with numerous shows.

Thirty years later, The Carolina Opry remains the top show in the market and Gilmore stands

alone as a producer, performer, and entrepreneur.

Though some have survived, none have managed to create the high quality production standard or the customer loyalty of Gilmore Entertainment. Why? Well, maybe because the cook is in the kitchen.

The show is not created by a hired gun from somewhere else; it is written, proCont. on page 12

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Cont. from page 10 duced, and directed right here in Myrtle Beach by the onsite owner. And it may be worth noting that it is owned entirely by the Gilmore family. Alone. No consortium of hotel-owners, no faceless corporate group.

The inauguration and phenomenal success of The Carolina Opry Christmas Special (“The Christmas Show of the South”) made Myrtle Beach a year-round destination. Many may have forgotten that thirty years ago Myrtle Beach rolled up the sidewalks after Labor Day. It was hard to find a restaurant open for lunch in December. Then the Christmas tour busses began to roll to The Carolina Opry Christmas Special.

Families from throughout the region came to Myrtle Beach in December just to see the show. Hotels and restaurants not only opened—they filled. And a new seasonal market was born.

And along the way, spurred on by the entertainment boom that Gilmore inspired, the Grand Strand experienced exponential growth. The buzz brought heavy hitters like Marriott and Hard Rock Café and Medieval Times to the banquet table.

Gilmore himself has performed numerous times on The Grand Ole Opry, was recognized for his accomplishments by the South Carolina state senate, and was bestowed the Palmetto Patriot award. His shows stand alone on the Grand Strand with major media accolades include NBC Nightly News, USA Today, CNN, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Times, Detroit Free Press, and a host of others. The Huffington Post recently noted that Gilmore’s shows featured “World-Class entertainers that blew us away . . . literally!”

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Gilmore’s shows are the only shows to have won every major South Carolina tourism award, including the coveted South Carolina Governer’s Cup and Most Outstanding Attraction, and are the only shows to be voted #1 for 30 years.

The Calvin Gilmore Theater now brings a level of production diversity never seen in Myrtle Beach. The theater will host 5 original productions: The classic Carolina Opry show (TCO), Time Warp, Thunder & Light (All That cloggers with laser lights), the much-loved Carolina Opry Christmas Special (“The Christmas Show of the South”), and the new Myrtle Beach Performing Arts series, featuring eclectic guest artists and lecturers such as Garrison Keillor, Art Garfunkel, Jack Hanna, and Ricky Skaggs.

If the Calvin Gilmore Theater doesn’t have what you want, then you may need to check your pulse! You know the old saying: There's nothing like an original.

Established in 1989, McCutchen, Mumford, Vaught, O'Dea & Geddie, P.A., is one of the pre-eminent law firms on the Grand Strand. We provide diverse legal services to an ever-broadening scope of individuals and businesses.

Assisting HOA’s and POA’s for over 25 years.

Governance & Operations - Covenant and Bylaws Drafting & Amendment Assessment Collections & Lien Foreclosures - Construction Defect Covenant & Restriction Enforcement

yourlawyersatthebeach.com 4610 Oleander Drive Site 203 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 843-449-3411

442 Main Street North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 843-281-9831

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Looking for things to do in Myrtle Beach? We’ve scoped out the best in Myrtle Beach attractions and restaurants so you don’t have to!

Take a look at our list of top things to do in Myrtle Beach.

Bonus: flip to the center of this book to take look at our handy Myrtle Beach map, which pinpoints our top 10 and a few more! (This is a big beach, 10 just isn’t enough!)

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The Calvin Gilmore Theater - Okay, if you are looking for an incredible time and something you can't do anywhere else – this is it! The Carolina Opry is the original show in Myrtle Beach and still the best in Myrtle Beach. Many have imitated but none have been able to equal the quality and talent of The Carolina Opry and Time Warp. The award-winning shows blend two hours of high-energy music, comedy and dance in a beautiful 2,000 seat theater complete with high-tech lighting and sound. But don't just take our word for it! The shows are highly acclaimed by The New York Times, USA Today, NBC Nightly News, and CNN, and named “Top Attraction in Myrtle Beach” by CNBC. In addition, it is an incredible value compared to live entertainment of this quality in Vegas or New York.

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Duplin Winery - Looking for a perfect way to unwind after a long day?

Uncork the sweeter side of Myrtle Beach at Duplin Winery, makers of America’s favorite Muscadine wine. Their newest location in North Myrtle Beach is stunning! Kick back with a glass of something cool, or gather some friends for a wine tasting. The staff is ready to educate and entertain you on the winemaking method while you enjoy a delicious tasting. Plus, you can watch the bottling process, relax in the courtyard, and shop in their gorgeous retail store offering wine, fudge, gourmet dips and dressings, wine accessories and some very unique gifts and housewares. It's worth a stop for the gift shop alone!

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Barefoot Princess Riverboat - Explore the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway aboard the Grand Strand's only tour and dinner riverboat!

Tw o c l i m a t e controlled decks, delicious buffet, cash bar, and entertainment for relaxing or dancing. Barefoot Princess offers sightseeing, dinner, sunset, and holiday cruises.

You can also book a group for even better rates! Conveniently located at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach.

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Brookgreen Gardens - Beautiful live oaks, renowned sculptures, rich history – and a zoo for the kids! From its beginning in 1931, this non-profit outdoor museum with its majestic oaks and worldrenowned sculpture has been a place to renew your spirit. Relive history as you walk the Lowcountry Trail. Then tour the only accredited zoo on the Carolina coast, where you will see native animals in their natural habitats. Beautiful gardens, rich historical sites and gracious southern hospitality tempt you to return again and again. Bonus – daytime admission here is good for 7 consecutive days!

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Original Benjamin's Calabash Seafood Buffet - If you are looking for a seafood buffet, this is definitely the best in Myrtle Beach! A land-

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mark on the Grand Strand, The Original Benjamin's Calabash Seafood Buffet serves fresh local seafood daily. Their award-winning, world-famous buffet introduced Calabash style lightly battered and deep-fried seafood to the Myrtle Beach area. But don't worry, they also have a delicious salad bar, a pasta station, dessert bar and just about any other food you can think of! Not only is their food great, but the restaurant itself is a seafaring adventure with a nautical theme and handcrafted model ships throughout. There is even a playroom with a loaded kid-sized play kitchen, a boat with fishing rods, mops for swabbing the deck, and arcade games.

Flamingo Grill - It's no surprise Flamingo Grill is voted "Best All Around Restaurant" year after year!

With fried lobster bites, lobster tail and filet, shrimp and grits, seared tuna peppercorn, flounder, salmon, a number of pasta dishes and so much more - there is something for everyone and everything is delicious! You'll love the upscale art deco decor as well. If you are looking for a local spot with nationally renowned cuisine, this is it!

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Alligator Adventure - At Alligator Adventure you’ll find yourself face to face with nature’s fiercest and most beautiful animals. Located adjacent to one of South Carolina’s most outstanding tourist attractions, Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, Alligator Adventure is one of the largest facilities for reptile life in the world!

Live shows include Alligator and Snake handling, and mid-April through midOctober you can watch live Alligator feedings and learn about what they eat, their powerful jaws, and how high those 15-foot gators can jump!

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8 Angelo's Steak and Pasta - On the south end of the beach you'll find Angelo's Steak and Pasta, a local italian restaurant known for "the greatest steaks in the universe." That may sound like an exaggeration, but the steaks really are incredible! They are hand cut on premises, perfectly aged, and served on a sizzling plate.

(I order mine rare and cook each bite to my liking on the sizzling plate!) If you are looking for a little more variety, they also have an "all-you-can-eat" italian buffet. Of course, they also have their full italian menu, appetizers, full bar and some great early bed deals. All of their entrees, including the buffet, are authentic family recipes with their own personal touch.

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Captain George's Seafood Buffet Located next to Broadway at the Beach, Captain George’s offers over 70 items on the buffet, including crab legs, steamed shrimp, steamed clams and mussels, Oyster Rockefeller, freshly baked fish and much more. Since opening in 2000, Since its opening in 2000, the World Famous Seafood Buffet has been a favorite destination for vacationing families! Start your own family tradition and dine with Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant the next time you are in Myrtle Beach!

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Big "M" Casino Cruise - If you are looking for something a little different, this fun excursion is just for you! Enjoy a beautiful cruise while partaking in a delicious buffet - and the icing on the cake is the chance to win some big bucks while you are out there! Enjoy Las Vegas style gaming including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Let it Ride, 3 Card Poker and slots. It's a little bit of Vegas right here in Myrtle Beach!

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To see more and to view our handy map on your phone, visit

www.TheBestInMyrtleBeach.com

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Calvin Gilmore A profile of the director, producer and founder of Gilmore Entertainment

“...he participated in

Norman Rockwell

a vanishing

lifestyle...�

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alvin Gilmore grew up in the Ozarks C of southern Missouri. The son of a farmer, on a third-generation farm, he

participated in a vanishing Norman Rockwell lifestyle which centered on the one-room community schoolhouse, the country church that his family had helped to found, and the community of farmers that banded together on threshing days.

By the time he was twenty, he had taken his guitar to Kansas City, where he worked in the Hallmark mailroom by day and sang in restaurants and bars in the evenings. When a Nashville label encouraged him to execute a quality demo tape, Calvin needed some capital.

He decided to try his hand at real estate, moving to the Lake of the Ozarks, a resort area not too far from where he grew up. His life took an unexpected detour when he met with almost immediate success: within a year he was able to buy the real estate company for which he worked. Just a week after closing the deal, Calvin married Janis Walker. A few years (and two children) down the road, Calvin realized that he wasn’t doing what he had always meant to do. A devoted family man, he wouldn’t consider a life on the road. He came up with the idea of creating a musical variety show so that he could perform and remain in one place: home. It took him three years, but by 1986 he had selected Myrtle Beach as a likely market, found a theater (he would renovate a defunct nightclub), and worked out the financing (he would risk everything); he and Janis moved with their young children to Surfside Beach in March 1986.

The success of The Carolina Opry is the stuff of legend. Over the years, Calvin Gilmore and his casts have entertained millions of Myrtle Beach visitors. On May 2 the show celebrated its 30th anniversary, a milestone by any standard. His exceptionally high standards for talent and production quality have been recognized by the industry

and the public. The Carolina Opry is the only show to have won the coveted Governor’s Cup (South Carolina’s highest tourism award), the only show to have been voted the state’s Most Outstanding Attraction, and the only show to be voted #1 every year. Gilmore has spawned the growth of a new entertainment industry on the Grand Strand of South Carolina, and under his leadership The Carolina Opry has blossomed into an institution. It has garnered coverage from NBC Nightly News, USA Today, CNN, Variety, Hollywood Reporter, The New York Times, and a host of others.

Thirty years later, Calvin is still on the forefront of the ever-changing entertianment industry. In 2003 he began appearing on the stage of the world famous Grand Ole Opry, where he never misses an opportunity to invite their loyal nationwide radio audience to visit Myrtle Beach. In 2005, he introduced Good Vibrations and, more recently, t he newest production in that series, Time Warp.

Pe r for me d by t he Carolina Opry cast, it features the iconic sights and sounds of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. In 2014 Gilmore debuted Thunder and Light, a live dance, laser and magic show starring the renowned All That!

Clogging Group. In 2015 Gilmore introduced the Myrtle Beach Performing Arts Series bringing guest artists encompassing a number of genres, including music, comedy, and authors. Among others, the series has hosted Garrison Keillor, Art Garfunkel, Ricky Skaggs, Jack Hanna and many more.

As we celebrated the landmark of the 30th anniversary, Calvin reflected on the events of those years: the pursuit of excellence, the creativity, the struggles, and the successes. “I have had the great blessing of being able to do what I love and make a living at it. My heartfelt thanks to all of those who have enjoyed the show down through the years and sent their customers and guests. May we all enjoy many more together.”

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Artist Spotlight Meet the cast of Myrtle Beach's hottest shows TCO, Time Warp, Thunder and Light and The Carolina Opry Christmas Special

Kym Shurbutt

Comedy, Guitar, Vocals Kym Shurbutt, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, has been entertaining for more than thirty-five years—over twenty-five of those years spent here at The Calvin Gilmore Theater, where he was an original cast member and is best known for the character “Bogie.” Also a vocalist and musician, Kym has performed at the legendary Bitter End in New York.

When not performing, Kym has volunteered for such causes as Promise Land Crisis Center and Hurricane Katrina relief.

He also helped form a men’s devotional group, which he attends weekly. Kym’s favorite quote is “People will forget what you say, and people will forget what you do, but people will never forget how you make them feel.”

Kym takes great pride and pleasure in his son Cody.

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Rita Gumm

Vocals, Piano Rita resides in Myrtle Beach with Eric, her husband and fellow cast member.

Reflecting on her life Rita says, “I feel fortunate to have grown up in a Christian home with a wonderful family (parents who taught me first and foremost to love and trust Jesus Christ, our heavenly Father), the greatest husband, a precious daughter, and my darling grandson.”

Rita has performed to millions worldwide promoting a “dream come true” gospel album. National television appearances include the 700 Club, TBN, and Old Time Gospel Hour (hosted by Jerry Falwell).

Rita was part of the original cast, making her debut with The Carolina Opry at its premier performance in 1986.

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Artist Spotlight Eric Gumm

Comedy, Guitar, Harmonica, Vocals, Electric Bass Eric grew up in the small towns of Weaubleau and Warsaw, Missouri, where his parents (both school teachers) instilled in him a love of music and sports. When Eric was seven, his father taught him to play the guitar, and he grew up playing and singing in church with his father and his sister.

Eric enjoys playing basketball, softball, and golf, watching the Kansas City Chiefs on Sundays, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with his grandson Hunter.

Eric reads the Bible daily and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was nine years old. He is married to the love of his life, Rita, who is a featured vocalist in The Carolina Opry, and whom he met onstage at The Calvin Gilmore Theater in March of 1989.

Eric joined Calvin Gilmore Productions in 1989 as an original cast member of The Dixie Jubilee in North Myrtle Beach. Eric loves to make people laugh and says that being in The Carolina Opry cast “is like having a second family.�

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Christie Templeton

Vocals Christie Templeton is from Lake Wylie, SC. By the age of 10, Christie had several musicals, talent shows, and TV appearances under her belt, including the lead role in the production of Annie.

Known as the "little one with the big voice," Christie's versatility is unmatched.

She was a featured vocalist for Grammy Award winning Lee Greenwood and has shared the stage with Billy Ray Cyrus, John Michael Montgomery, and the Oak Ridge Boys.

Her greatest accomplishment is the day her family "accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, for without Him nothing is possible." Christie shares her home with original cast member and true love Steve Templeton and their children, Lauren and Cole. She gives credit to God, her loving husband, family and fans. "The gift of music is a special thing to have, and I will continue to use it for His glory and honor as long as I am able to."

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Artist Spotlight Gary Brown

Acoustic Guitar, Vocals, Mandolin, Lap Steel, Steel Guitar, Dobro, Musical Director Gary, who was born in Walnut Cove, North Carolina, attributes his choice of music as a career to his parents’ love of music, particularly bluegrass.

He began traveling at age fifteen with the band Boot Hill from WinstonSalem. After high school Gary moved to Knoxville, where he attended the University of Tennessee and met his wife Martha. They married in 1980 and worked in bands together, traveling throughout the next decade.

In 1989 Gary and Martha became original members of Calvin Gilmore’s Dixie Jubilee in North Myrtle Beach. In his spare time Gary is an avid tennis player.

Brad Long

Emcee, Vocals, Guitar Brad began his journey on his musical path at a very early age, playing both drums and guitar at the many live music venues in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He quickly became a crowd favorite for his powerhouse rock26

edged vocals. Brad's clear, powerful, yet controlled tenor voice and rock-tinged country style shout “Nashville star.” He has a strong work ethic and a desire to continually improve.

Brad has shared the stage with such luminaries as Dwight Yoakam, Jason Aldean, Craig Morgan, Little Big Town, and Justin Moore. He has polished his stage performances to a high gloss and continues to strive to improve. In short, he’s doing all of the things a budding country star needs to do to gain lasting success.

Tangena Church Vocals

A native of North Carolina, Tangena brings a variety of performance experiences to The Calvin Gilmore Theater stage.

She began her singing career at four years of age at church; after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Tangena traveled extensively abroad as a featured entertainer on various cruise lines and in the U.S. on the Broadway National Tour of The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Other theater credits include Man of La Mancha, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Cabaret. Tangena and her husband Pete are the proud parents of beautiful Sadie Katherine Mishler and Deacon Mishler.

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Artist Spotlight Trent Wideman

Hammered Dulcimer, Fiddle, Guitar, Mandolin, Comedy, Vocals, Xylophone Trent grew up at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. A Missouri state fiddling champion in 1994, Trent appeared in the Main Street Music Hall, Lake of the Ozarks, where he later formed his own show, Country Lights USA. In 2002 Trent performed on Fox Television’s 30 Seconds to Fame.

He then moved to Branson, Missouri, where he was the featured comedian and musician for the critically acclaimed Country Tonite show. Trent gives thanks to the Lord for the talent he’s been blessed with and feels lucky to be able to share it with people everyday.

Kevin Hughes

Bass Guitar, Vocals, Acoustic Bass, Piano, Trumpet, Trombone, Musical Director Originally from Petersburg, Virginia, Kevin has been playing music since the age of five and is accomplished on the piano, drums, trumpet, and trombone. When he is not playing bass at The Calvin 28

Gilmore Theater or writing and recording tunes, Kevin, who has a degree in computer programming, is busy as a network developer. He lives in Myrtle Beach with his wife Marsha and their two children.

Colton Cason

Vocals, Trumpet, Bass Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Keyboard

Colton began his musical career with the trumpet in junior high. Later Colton's unbelievable vocal gift was discovered and he developed a passion for singing. His style is heavily influenced by Frank Sinatra and Michael Bublé.

Colton's original song "Take Me In Your Arms" was featured in the nationally released film, The Investigator.

Colton has been featured as both a vocalist and solo trumpet in the State College of Florida Jazz Band and won the Solo Jazz Competition at the Florida State Community College Symposium in 2012. He was featured as a solo vocalist with the Venice Pops Orchestra and the Sarasota Pops Orchestra.

Artist Spotlight Chasity Croft

Vocals From a 3-year-old Chasity standing on a chair to sing before her father’s sermons, to traveling with her mother singing Southern Gospel music, singing is all this South Carolina girl has ever known.

Honors received at Lexington High School in show choirs, chamber ensembles, and Broadway reviews, gave her the platform to receive a scholarship to Lee University. As a result,

she had the opportunity to sing internationally in places such as Sydney, Venice, Rome, and even at the Vatican. After college, Chasity headlined as Tina Turner in Chattanooga, TN. From there, she went on to recognition as a featured soloist on Dove Award-nominated project “Lifestyle,” recorded with Second Edition and the worldrenowned Lee Singers, and has been featured on Grammy-nominated projects. She was named Tennessee’s NACMAI Entertainer of the Year and was named Best Singer in Tennessee 2015, in addition to other awards and titles.

Chasity’s most prized accomplishment is being mother to the “most beautiful children in the world, Selah Mercy and Zion Israel.”

She is engaged to the talented Craig Sorrells.

Through marriage she will gain two more beautiful children, Skyler and Callie.

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Artist Spotlight Gary Baker

Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar A native of Charleston, SC, Gary comes from a long line of musicians. He is a graduate of Winthrop University, with a B.A. in Music.

Gary has played The Grand Ole Opry forty times, appeared in several music videos, and has shared the stage with some of t o d a y ’s m o s t popular country artists such as Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, Gretchen Wilson, and Sara Evans. In addition to playing guitar, Gary also writes and records music. He has been blessed with a son, Lindsay, who also plays music.

Drew Voivedich

Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Dobro A native of Little River, SC, Drew grew up in a musical family playing with his father and his brother. Drew went on to form The Kid Drew Band, and toured regiona l l y. H a v i n g incredible natural talent, Drew quickly became a local phenomenon and was able to turn that into national success. Drew has now shared the stage with 30

such greats as Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, and Ricky Skaggs. He recently completed a tour with American Idol’s Kellie Pickler.

Brian Daggett

Percussion, Drums Inspired by his musical parents, this Arlington, VA native has been playing drums since the age of 5.

Brian performed with the Arlington and McLean Symphonies in Virginia at just 13 years old and later graduated from the Atlanta Institute of Music with honors. Brian has toured around the world for over 15 years, including a European Tour with Grammy Nominated Reggae Band SOJA and US tours supporting acts such as Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, Toots and the Maytals, The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and Grammy award winning Reggae Band Black Uhuru. Brian’s most recent tour included performing with singer/song writer Mike Pinto in over 40 states. He has released 5 full length albums with Atlanta Based rock band Groove Stain, and has worked with Grammy Award winning producers Shondrae Crawford and Rico Wade of Outkast, Ludacris and Usher. Brian says that being able to play his drums, work with this fabulous cast and crew every day, and having the time to spend with his wife, Ashley, and son, Landen, is the greatest part about his job.

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Artist Spotlight Kevin White

Keyboards, Piano, Guitar, Saxophone Kevin White grew up in a small town near the gulf coast in southwest Alabama. He began playing the piano at the age of five. After graduating from high school, he attended Northeast Mississippi Community College where he majored in music theory. His professional career began as a cast member on The Denny Hilton Show, at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. He has spent many years performing in other variety shows such as Calvin Gilmore's Dixie Jubilee a n d Tr i b u t e The Concert, and at Bobby Helm's Celebrity Theater. Kevin has toured with many country artists such as Mickey Gilley, David Allan Coe, Shelby Lynn, Randy Travis, and Craig Morgan. He has also had success as a songwriter with such artists as Billy Ray Cyrus and Atlantic Starr. He attributes all of his talents and success to God as being the source and provider for everything that has happened in his musical career. Kevin currently resides in Myrtle Beach with his wife Andrea and daughter Savannah.

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Jeff Simmons

Saxophone, Keyboards, Piano, Arrangement & Charting, Brass Section Leader An Atlanta native, Jeff earned his bachelor's in music at the University of Georgia and his master's in music at the University of South Carolina. Jeff has performed with Ray Charles, Mary Wilson, The Temptations, Burt Bacharach, Tony Bennett, The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, The Savannah Jazz Orchestra, The Carolina Philharmonic, and The North Carolina Symphony. Jeff writes special music arrangements for music groups throughout the U.S., and has been staff arranger for UNC Marching Tar Heels and the NC State Marching Wolfpack. His original compositions and arrangements for bands are published by Arranger's Publishing Company in Nashville, TN. He is also director of music at Pawleys Mission Abbey in Pawleys Island, SC. Jeff resides in Myrtle Beach with his wife, Trina, and their two boys, Hunter and Jacob.

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Artist Spotlight Paul Sweetman

Lighting Design From the moment Paul saw the Broadway show Camelot, he knew his destiny was to be in the field of lighting. He attributes much of his education to his mentor, Alex Von Saher, who taught him the true art of lighting and gave him the freedom to create on such international shows as Tri Amici and Entré Me. Paul’s career spans over 25 years and every entertainment genre, from live TV to musical theater. He has been involved with such artists as Donny Osmond, Belinda Carlisle, the Oak Ridge Boys, Phil Driscoll, UB 40, Def Leppard, U2, and Genesis.

Paul enjoys spending time with his best friend and creative partner: wife Diane “Wendy” Sweetman.

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Wendy Sweetman

Production Mngr, Video Design, Costuming Wendy developed her love for production from her gospel singer and songwriter mother and her engineer father. She gained her first professional experience in live TV at the age of 15, interning at a prominent cable network.

Wendy’s career has included many aspects of production, from corporate communications and multi-media to live event production and management. She has worked productions for such notable artists as Tony Bennett, Toni Tennille, Danny Gans, Louis Anderson, Joel Grey, Linda Ronstadt with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, and the St. Louis Symphony with Yo Yo Ma. Wendy loves spending time with her best friend and creative partner, husband Paul Sweetman.

A NATIONAL HISTORIC L ANDMARK

Named One of the Top 10 Public Gardens in the country by TripAdvisor®

For more information call

(800) 849-1931 Admission is good for 7 days

www.BROOKGREEN.org

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Artist Spotlight Jeffrey Gilmore

Producer/Director Jeff comes by his production abilities naturally, having grown up in the business. He was eight years old when his family moved from Missouri to South Carolina to start The Carolina Opry. In those early days he pitched in by carrying ice to concessions stands and props to cast members.

After completing his college degree in Chicago, Illinois, he moved back to Myrtle Beach and joined the family business. He is executive vice president and acts as producer and director under his father as well as taking a seat on the company’s advisory board. He also coaches The Carolina Opry softball team, which participates in the Midnight League in Myrtle Beach, competing with other theaters and attractions.

Jeff and his wife, Carrie, enjoy spending time with their two children and traveling together as a family.

Margaret Rice Scott

Costuming, Choreography Margaret, a native of Latta, South Carolina, attended the Emmalyn Davis School of Dance in Marion, South Carolina, from age three until her high school graduation. She then ventured to Cincinnati, Ohio, where she studied musical theatre at the Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. After 6 years Margaret returned to her roots 36

in the Carolinas and visited Myrtle Beach, where she auditioned for Calvin Gilmore.

Margaret joined The Carolina Opry cast in 1990, adding a new dimension to the show — dance. Margaret enjoys spending time with her husband Rich and their daughter Stone.

Michael Cook

Sound Design A native of Lexington, NC, Mike's first job in the Audio Field was for SE Systems as an audio technician and sales manager. During the '80s and '90s he provided sound services for national acts such as The Beach Boys, The Doob i e Brothers, and Petra. During that time he was hired as audio technician by The Gatlin Brothers and spent the next 15 years as their engineer.

He moved to Myrtle Beach, and in 1999 he started his own production company - MC Sound, Light, and Video. He appreciates working with the state-of-the-art electronics at The Calvin Gilmore Theater as well as some of the most talented musicians and entertainers in the nation.

Artist Spotlight Vince White

Stage Manager Vince, a native of West Virginia, studied theater at Coastal Carolina U n i v e r s i t y, where he gained experience with a wide variety of live performances both in the classroom and backstage in their theater and scene

shop. After graduation Vince worked behind the scenes with many wellknown stage artists such as Darius Rucker, Willie Nelson, BB King, Jane's Addiction, Black Crowes, Stone Temple Pilots, Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Dierks Bentley, David Copperfield, and countless others. He has also worked with a number of national stage tours of musical theater, including Hairspray, Porgy and Bess, Sunset Boulevard, and Chicago.

Vince now lives in Conway. In his spare time he enjoys running, being outside, and spending time with his family, girlfriend, and five dogs.

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Artist Spotlight: All That Clogging Group Mike Curtis: One of the most recognizable names in the clogging world, Mike Curtis began appearing in individual clogging competitions over 20 years ago and has won hundreds of titles including two Duet National Championships. After years in the competition circuit, Curtis knew it was time for something more, and he formed the group All That! with three of his best friends and former competitors. All That! soon stepped out of the clogging world and into mainstream success.

Mark Clifford: Mark started his dancing career at the age of 5. In 1996 he accepted a dance scholarship to Mars Hill College, where he studied and received a BA in Corporate Communication. As a national instructor Mark has traveled across the United States teaching master classes and choreography for many clogging teams. Mark has performed in Austria, Germany, Italy, Ireland, and now Hong Kong. Mark has been a member of All That! since the group's inception.

Brad Berry: Brad grew up in Prospect, Ohio, and started competitive clogging at the age of 12. Brad has toured around the world with Atlanta based irish step dancing group Dancing On Common Ground and Berlin based troupe, Magic of the Dance. Between those tours Berry also spent two summers in Branson, Missouri, at Silver Dollar City dancing in their original productions. Brad joined the clogging group All That! in May of 2006.

Drake Elkin: Drake started clogging at 10 as a hobby at The Rise & Shine Cloggers Dance Studio in Ellettsville, IN; further interest was sparked by a studio trip to Europe. Within 5 years Drake had moved on to competitive dance in Branson with The Clogging Sensation and was winning solo competitions consistently. Among his many awards, Drake boasts several Junior Olympics medals including five gold medals, six silver medals and one bronze medal.

Ethan Stewart: Ethan Stewart has been clogging since the age of 6. After dancing throughout the country on a competitive team for 14 years, he joined the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Ethan is now happy to join All That! as his new home in show business.

Among their renowned performances: Fox’s 30 Seconds to Fame, ABC Family’s Dance Fever, CBS’s Star Search, semi-finalists for a second time on NBC’s, America’s Got Talent, featured dancers in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and, most recently, featured half-time entertainment at the NFL's Carolina Panthers Game. All That! was also presented the Pioneer Award, clogging’s highest honor, for their huge contribution to promoting the dance.

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Artist Spotlight: Calvin Gilmore Theater Dancers Megan Daniel Curtis, Dance Captain: Megan’s passion for performance started young as she watched her parents perform. She began dancing professionally when she was 15, has worked for many professional theaters as a dancer and vocalist, and has been a member of our cast for 10 years.

When she is not performing Megan loves to choreograph and teach. Megan met her husband performing here, and their family became complete when they brought their daughter into the world in July of 2010.

Taryn Martin: A native of Myrtle Beach, Taryn began dancing at a young age and continued her training across the globe in New York, London, Nashville, and California. Taryn has won multiple titles at competitions and conventions in all styles of dance across the Carolinas. She has also performed with Radio City Christmas Spectacular and Legends in Concert. As a new member to The Calvin Gilmore Theater, Taryn feels blessed to perform in her hometown.

Mollie Daniel: A seventh generation Texan, Mollie began dancing at an early age and has trained and performed across the United States with Houston Ballet, Orlando Ballet, The School of American Ballet in New York City and numerous other entertainment productions. Honored with many national awards and scholarships in all dance styles, Mollie is excited to have the opportunity to come home to Myrtle Beach and perform at The Calvin Gilmore Theater!

Brittany Sibert: Britt Sibert received her training as well as many titles and awards competing with the nationally ranked Southern Strutt. Her training continued assisting choreographers Mandy Moore and Ray Leeper, known for their work on So You Think You Can Dance. Britt has traveled the world as a solo aerialist and dancer with Holland America Line. As the newest member of The Calvin Gilmore Theater family, Britt feels blessed to be performing back in her native South Carolina.

Rosa Rea: Rosa is a trained singer, dancer, and actress whose love for Musical Theatre began in her youth. She has performed in Charleston, Canada, Reno, and Myrtle Beach and has now returned to Charleston, SC where she studies Marketing. In her free time she plays guitar and skateboards. Rosa would like to thank her family for continuously giving her strength during hardships.

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Calvin Gilmore Theater Trivia Guess Who...

1. …has performed for 18 years without missing a show? (By the way, that’s somewhere in the neighborhood of 4,400 consecutive shows.)

2. …has appeared regularly on The Grand Ole Opry for the past three years?

3. …is the daughter of a Holiness minister?

4. …started out as a parking attendant in The Carolina Opry parking lot in Surfside in 1989?

5. …grew up on a third-generation farm and attended a one-room schoolhouse?

6. …is a Missouri state fiddling champion?

7. …had an original song featured in the nationally released film The Investigator?

8. …recently completed a tour with Kelly Pickler?

9. …can claim two-time finalists on America's Got Talent and Judges' Favorite?

And the Answer Is...

1. Eric Gumm, comedian and vocalist. Another bit of interesting trivia about Eric is that he has an uncle and a nephew who also perform comedy in similarly formatted shows. Practically a dynasty!

2. Calvin Gilmore began appearing regularly on The Grand Ole Opry in 2003.

3. Rita Gumm, featured vocalist and original cast member, grew up in Tabor City, NC, where her father was a Church of God Pentecostal Holiness preacher for over 40 years.

4. Rich Scott worked as a parking attendant at the old theater in Surfside Beach, while he attended college at Coastal Carolina University. Today he is the General Maganer and Head of Sales for The Calvin Gilmore Theater.

5. Calvin Gilmore grew up in the farmhouse that his grandfather had lived in; he attended a one-room schoolhouse through the 8th grade.

6. Trent Wideman! He is also sometimes known as Aunt Dessie!

7. Colton Cason with the original song "Take Me in Your Arms".

8. Drew Voivedich recently completed a tour with Kellie Pickler and has also shared the stage with Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban and Ricky Skaggs!

9. It's All That! Clogging Group of course!

Read more about all of our cast throughout Spotlight Magazine!

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