It’s hard to believe that Forever Plaid, the beloved musical revue that celebrates clean-cut 1950s guy groups and their pristine four-part harmonies, turns 23 this year. Millions of “plaidsters” –– fans of the show –– have already seen Stuart Ross’ long-running off-Broadway production or one of the many international touring versions or have bought the little-known 2009 movie version. In addition to breaking box office records almost everywhere it has played, Forever Plaid was one of the pioneering so-called “jukebox musicals,” a.k.a. shows that feature hit pop songs that were not originally written for the musical. “Three Coins in the Fountain,” “Love is a Many Splendored Thing,” “Sixteen Tons,” and “Moments to Remember” are among the tunes that Sparky, Jinx, Smudge, and Frankie (the names of the Forever Plaid quartet) have immortalized with their golden, squeaky-clean pipes.
For its 2013 Gala fund-raiser, Casa Mañana is reviving Forever Plaid with an extra layer of nostalgia: Casa’s version will be directed by Guy Stroman, one of the revue’s co-creators and an original cast member. Stroman was raised in Fort Worth, graduated from TCU, and went on to an impressive New York stage career that included both directing and performing. A $75 ticket to the Gala performance will include the show and an after-party that features live entertainment and an open bar. –– Jimmy Fowler
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The 2013 Casa Mañana Gala performance of Forever Plaid is 8:30pm Fri at 3101 W Lancaster, FW. $75. Additional performances are Sat-Sun. Tickets are $41-66. Call 817-332-2272.
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