The word vaudeville normally evokes images of a certain type and style of entertainment that hit its height of popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. In truth, vaudeville is defined as a variety show. And when “Vaudeville 2010” opens at the Summit Players Theatre in Bluefield next week, that’s exactly what audiences can expect - la lot of variety.

“’Vaudeville 2010’ is a modern and contemporary variety show featuring all types of talents,” Director Sara Helmadollar said. “I love that this year’s show is so different from last year’s season opener, ‘Vaudeville at the Summit’. Our goal was to develop a show inspired by the vaudeville genre and give it a modern and contemporary edge and jam-pack it with quality entertainment. I think we have achieved that with ‘Vaudeville 2010.’”

More than 30 area residents are coming together to help create this one-of-a-kind theater experience sure to please audiences of all ages.

“This show is a true community effort. We are so fortunate to have so many cast members and volunteers who are community-minded and love the arts,” Helmadollar said. “’Vaudeville 2010’ includes singing, dancing, comedy acts, acrobatics and a juggler. This show at this venue (Summit Players Theatre) is the perfect opportunity for your everyday citizen to participate in a high-energy show and share their talents with their neighbors.”

After a rollicking opening medley from the ‘Vaudeville 2010’ house band - KB & the DJs - Emcee Merrell Mackerel (played by Skip Crane) keeps the show rolling while sharing his personal story, struggles and aspirations of performing in Broadway’s revival of Hairspray.

Between Mackerel’s random ranting, bad jokes and general disposition, audiences will be delighted with song, humor and rare talents from local performers. KB & the DJs is comprised of band director Bob Campion on lead guitar, Dan Turner on the keyboard, Jack Goins on bass, Katy Goins on drums and Shawn Williams with vocals.

“This band is something special. They have all sung and played together in some fashion before, but have gelled to form something really fantastic,” Helmadollar said. “There are some very nice moments where the band is spotlighted and that’s very exciting. They will also play throughout the evening with various cast members. KB & the DJs is a versatile and talented group.”

Audiences will be treated to pre-show entertainment from the locally-based jazz band Doc Greenberg’s Patient Jazz, acrobats from Starz Performing Arts Academy and table magic by Bluefield resident Ron Whalen. Producer Shawn Williams said, “One of the things that makes this production unique is the full evening of entertainment our audiences can expect from the moment they enter the doors. Local volunteers are already working hard to create a festive and elegant atmosphere throughout the theater, and the pre-show entertainers who are slated to perform will offer audiences an additional hour of exciting sights and sounds before the curtains ever open.”

“Vaudeville 2010” will be held Friday, Feb. 19 and Feb. 26, and Saturday, Feb. 20 and Feb. 27. Cost for dinner theater is $30 per person for adults and $15 for children under 12 years old. Dinner will begin at 6 p.m., and curtain will be at 7:30 p.m.

Reservations are required for dinner theater. Although guests are still asked to pay at the door, a credit card is required to guarantee reservations. A matinee will be held Sunday, Feb. 21. Reservations are not required. Cost for adults is $15, and children under 12 years old are $10. Doors open at 1:30 p.m., with the matinee beginning at 2 p.m. The Heritage Café will offer brunch from 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. at a cost of $10. Those interested in brunch are encouraged to call The Heritage Café. To place a reservation for dinner theater, call (304) 325-8000.