While I wasn’t alive to experience the 1970’s, the era lives on in its music. That era’s message continues on today, and this is especially evident in 70’s Fever, playing until June 29th.
It was while watching the show that I realize just how many “gay anthems” came out of the 70’s. Sure there are the obvious ones like It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, We Are Family, and, well, anything by the Village People. But also songs that have reached a whole new generation like Thelma Houston’s Don’t Leave Me This Way which was on the Queer as Folk Soundtrack, or Lady Marmalade which found new life with the cover on the Moulin Rouge Soundtrack.
“It is a showcase of costumes and choreography and we have a lot of fun and a good time,” gay cast member David Lopez told us. “The cast loves each other. We have a lot of fun and really support each other. Some of us have done the show before (in Mississauga) but experiencing it with a whole new cast brings a different energy that is a lot of fun.”
One thing about 70’s Fever is that it is very, very gay. In fact, topics like HIV and Stonewall are mentioned in the show, which is surprising considering the age of many of the patrons. And the set that pays tribute to The Village People tops it, no pun intended, with a hilariously fun romp through Can’t Stop The Music, Macho Man, Go West, In The Navy, and YMCA. Lopez was even talked into stripping out of his cop outfit for the segment.
“I did it as a joke once in rehearsal a long time ago, and it stuck. It is one of those things that I thought I would regret but it is what it is.“
One of the standouts of Stage West’s musical revues is how true they are to the original performances. How they continue to find people who can portray some of these legends is beyond me. All of the top acts from the era are present including The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and of course, ABBA. Another highlight is the Motown Medley with The Jackson Five, Rick James, Thelma Houston, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin and Peaches & Herb. Lopez, Keith White, Tiffany Deriveau and Keisha T. Fraser infuse the set with a legitimate Motown feel.
“I would have to say Motown is my favorite part of the show. All of that music - people instantly know it, and see the smiles on the audience’s faces when we come out for that number.”
Regardless of whether the 70’s will bring back memories from your youth, or will just make you wish you had been there, 70’s Fever is a fantastic gay old time at Stage West.
“The music spans all generations, they aren’t gay specific although at the time it probably was thought of as. It touches everybody in different ways. People who lived through the 70’s will get to experience it again. Hearing it live, seeing the costumes and the lights I am sure many will remember exactly what they were doing the first time they heard that song. Also, there is lots of eye candy for everybody no matter what your preference is,” Lopez concluded.
On a side note, shortly before this article was written Stage West’s long time publicist Debbie Sturrock advised us that she was leaving Stage West. Debbie, you have been absolutely awesome and we here at GayCalgary would like to thank you for a wonderful 4 years and wish you the best!

70’s Fever
April 24th – June 29th, 2008
www.stagewestcalgary.com
Tickets: (403) 243-6642