Lord Franzannian Royal Olympian Spectacular Vaudeville Show

by Christina Butcher for OLY ARTS

Hold on to your seats, Olympia, because the Lord Franzannian Royal Olympian Spectacular Vaudeville Show is back, and it’s slated to be bigger and better than ever before. Directed by local storyteller Elizabeth Lord, LFROSVS is an annual variety show featuring short, one-act performances by acrobats, actors, dancers, musicians, singers and storytellers, all of whom are trying out new talents and acts for audiences. “The LFROSVS is a favorite in Olympia because it is a true community event,” says Lord. “The audience is often surprised to see people they know on stage doing things they didn’t know they could.”

LFROSVS is expected to include 15 to 22 acts, live musical performances by the jazzy duo Scuff & Al and “through-line” sketches performed by Lord herself. Though the show’s lineup won’t be finalized until after auditions on September 17, audiences can expect a full evening of diverse, fast-paced performances lasting three or fewer minutes apiece. “The best acts are usually humorous, absurd or a display of true talent and skill,” says Lord. “The goal is for each act to be completely different from the one preceding it on the bill. One moment the audience is reeling in the incredible ability of a talented soul singer, the next they’re watching a contortionist place both legs behind their head.”

This year’s LFROSVS will be produced by BigShowCity Performing Arts Organization, a nonprofit that provides financial support to local artists working to publicly present their art. LFROSVS performers receive a small stipend from BigShowCity for their participation in the evening’s show. “For some performers, this will be the first time they ever receive payment for their art,” says Lord. “Paying artists is very, very important. Too often they go underappreciated … but what they contribute to our culture and world is invaluable.”

What: Lord Franzannian Royal Olympian Spectacular Vaudeville Show

When: 8 p.m. Fridays – Sundays, Oct. 13-22

Where: The Midnight Sun Performance Space,
113 N. Columbia St., Olympia

How much: $15-$25

Learn more: email | Lord Franzannian

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