If you were an aspiring performer back in the 50’s and 60’s, the one person who could guarantee your stardom was Ed Sullivan.
In case you’re too young to remember, Sullivan was television’s undisputed “Kingmaker,” who helped turn the gyrating Elvis Presley into a singing sensation. Sullivan also brought British heart throbs like the Beatles to the US for their first live performances in front of legions of screaming teenagers.
So what does The Ed Sullivan Show and Key West’s annual Pride Follies show have in common?
Now in it’s 15th year, Pride Follies is reminiscent of Ed Sullivan’s vintage hit TV show and makes old fashion vaudeville cool again. As a precursor to Key West’s Pride festivities, which take place from June 7 – 11, Follies is the brainchild of our own Peter Arnow. A long time pillar of Key West’s island community, Arnow, with the help of the Key West Business Guild, has stewarded its success for over a decade.
Directed and emceed by 2017 Fantasy Fest Queen, Destiny Montgomery, this year’s show is guaranteed to be a dynamic roller coaster ride with acts ranging from outstanding vocals and dancing programs to fun and saucy burlesque performances, comedy routines and more.
Pride Follies is an annual fundraising event produced by the Key West Business Guild which has been promoting LGBTQ tourism for the last 43 years. This renowned non profit organization also stages several other annual signature events which include Key West Pride, Tropical Heat, Key West Womenfest and the Headdress Ball.
The upcoming Pride Follies takes place on Saturday, May 20 at the historic Key West Theater which offers full bar service and seating both downstairs and on an upper mezzanine. Doors open at 7pm so you’ll have plenty of time to mingle (social distanced, please) before the 8pm performance.
Tickets range from $15 per person to $35 per person for premium balcony seating and can be purchased online or at the theater box office Wednesday and Friday from noon to 6pm (5pm on show day). FYI: Must be 21 or older.
You can find the Key West Theater at 512 Eaton St in Key West. Tickets and info: 305-985-0433; keywesttheater.com.
