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Favorite singers in the spotlight

Largo shows feature decades of classic music.

By LaRITA JACOBS, Times Correspondent
Published January 30, 2008

ADVERTISEMENT [Handout] Jack Berrios will pay homage to Neil Diamond at the Largo Community Center on Feb. 7.

A-list performances in a casual, affordable venue. That's what the Largo Community Center promises with its Celebrity Showcase series, which is now in its third season. The shows feature musical presentations from popular musicians and tribute performers who pay homage to legends like Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley and others.

"The performers bring in a whole stage show," said Eileen Crowell, the community center's senior planning specialist. "There are backup singers, costumes, lights and full bands."

The showcase was created to bring in quality shows at affordable prices for senior citizens. Because many seniors prefer to avoid night driving, the shows begin at 1 p.m. on weekday afternoons. Ticket prices range from $13 to $15.

The series has been wildly successful, Crowell said. In three years, it has grown from three shows to 10 and attracts everyone from college students to seniors. Soldout shows aren't unusual at the 550- seat venue.

There are five shows remaining in this year's series.

On Thursday, Feb. 7, Jack Berrios pays tribute to famous singer Neil Diamond. Berrios' show, "Diamond - A Tribute to Neil Diamond," comes from Las Vegas and features many of the popular songwriter's biggest hits.

On Feb. 28, Bobby Mercer performs live in a high-energy variety show. He and his band entertain with comedy and popular music from four decades.

C.J. King and Company will offer "The Dream Concert: Elvis, Roy Orbison and Connie Francis - Together At Last." The March 20 event features look-a-like makeup and costuming.

Ronnie Prophet's gospel and country music talents have earned him a place in the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. His April 8 show will be held at the Largo Cultural Center.

The season finale features the tribute music of "The Andrews Sisters and More: Memories of the USO." In true USO style, the stage will be filled with a Big Band sound and sweet harmonies.

"Our audience is both large groups and single individuals," Crowell said. "We are open to all. We want everyone to have a good time and enjoy the show."

Fast facts

If you go

Celebrity Showcase Series

Largo Community Center, 65 Fourth St. NW

Shows are at 1 p.m. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door.

Feb. 7: "Diamond - A Tribute to Neil Diamond"

Feb. 28: "Bobby Mercer Road Show"

March 20: "The Dream Concert - Elvis, Roy Orbison and Connie Francis."

April 8: "The Incredible Ronnie Prophet Show"

April 17: "Memories of the USO."

Call (727) 518-3131

[Last modified January 29, 2008, 20:01:34]