Two representatives of Heart-A-Rama spoke this week about having to delay the 50th anniversary American Heart Association fundraiser. The 6-night show at the Two Rivers Community House was originally scheduled for late April and early May but the Covid-19 outbreak caused organizers to re-schedule for October 22nd through 24th and the 29th through 31st.
Longtime Heart-A-Rama emcee Biff Hansen termed it a “tough decision”, more emotionally than the postponement itself. But Hansen said “we knew we had to do that in light of this being a community project for a cause.” Rehearsals for the show were about to begin and now they have to determine if those on stage are able to make the newly scheduled times. Not only that, but it’s about the availability of volunteers who work behind-the-scenes for the 6-night run.
Jim Pautz, the show producer, told us the Heart-A-Rama chairpersons and a representative from the Heart Association regional office met last week and they all agreed postponement was the correct route, not a cancellation. The Two Rivers Recreation Department was contacted for open dates this Fall and the parties agreed to a reset six months later. He says future auditions depend on how many current members of the large cast can make the new dates, although Pautz would prefer to fill any openings from within. They’ll probably restart rehearsals at the end of August or early September.
A news release said while they’re sad to postpone this year’s show, “the safety of our guests, cast, and crew is more paramount than any cleverly hilarious, wildly entertaining production.” If you had already purchased tickets, you’re urged to hold onto them for further instructions. Tickets will be transferable to the October show date of your choice. Heart-A-Rama will be printing new tickets for exchange in the future.