Heather's Corner: You Won Believe What Oro Valley's Got Going On

I'm sure many of you are familiar with the Great American Playhouse.  If you aren't or if you haven't yet experienced it for yourself, have I got a treat for you.

Located at 13005 N. Oracle Rd., in what once was a grocery store, lies what I have found to be this far, Oro Valley's most enjoyable hidden gem. Once greeted at the door you are brought inside a creative, and surprisingly very talented, world of live theatre acts, pianist extraordinaire, and a encore second act variety show called, "The Olio," that combines wit, humor, and audience participation.  Did I mention they offer a generous menu with time honored favorites like pizza, meatball subs, and ice cream? You can sip on a cool glass of beer too all whilst being in the presence of a "family-oriented" entertainment and all age appropriate show. Are you sold?!

My family and I attended a Saturday afternoon show a few weeks back. We were astounded that we hadn't stumbled upon it before. We brought with us two four year olds who enjoyed the sing-a-longs, wild costumes, and props while the adults shared laughs in humor you can only appreciate with age on your side.

It was a good time to be had by all. The four year olds are still talking about it to this day. And as I previously mentioned their talented cast, the musical director/pianist, Mike Padilla, has played musically in various settings, most notably in San Francisco's Top of the Mark and The Fairmount Hotel. Hubba, bubba!

The shows change every few months or so, which give you an opportunity to enjoy the same show or experience a new one. Currently they are performing "Quest of the Caveman," which promises to be a delight for the young and young at heart. So grab the family and settle in for a delightful afternoon or evening of fun and entertainment. But if all else fails and you are one of those naysayers who can't fathom the idea of a one stop shop variety show the whole family will enjoy, you can always just fill up on the bottomless free popcorn they serve. Either way, it's a win-win.
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Heather Nenadovich has lived in Oro Valley a total of five years. She has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Arizona. Her husband is Canadian so she is a hockey fan by default and so are her two very clever children. When not being a mommy, she enjoys hiking in Catalina State Park, hand building pottery, and gardening. Her favorite things about living in Oro Valley are the towns recognition of art and culture, their commitment to preserving nature and the Christmas parade. (Also anything from GMG Chinese Bistro.)