DPRCA introduces first live show band since 2018

In just a few days, the DPRCA will be debuting their latest show, "A Christmas Survival Guide," which will feature an on-stage band performing live music!

The show aims to give audiences a respite from the stresses of the holiday season, as the cast and crew delve into the true essence of Christmas through "comedic musical vignettes."

The band - composed of Annette Hovey, Cathy Bowman and Jacob Louters - recently invited the Transcript backstage to get an early look at the show and to talk about some of their favorite aspects of Christmas.

This will be the first time since summer 2018 the DPRCA has had a band performing live music for a show, and Hovey, a veteran of show band, said she's looking forward to finally returning and getting another chance to elevate the show in a way only live music can.

"I enjoy helping bring the songs to a new level," she said. "When the singers sing it's great with the harmonies and everything, but when you add the band it just brings the music to a new level and that's just so special with live theater."

Hovey will be playing piano for the band, and she told the Transcript that her very favorite Christmas song happens to be in the show, and that she can't wait to play it.

When asked what her favorite Christmas song is, she said, "'O Holy Night,' which is in this show! Yay! ... That's going to be one powerful song so it's going to be a pretty special moment."

As for what Hovey enjoys about Christmas, she said spending time with family is what she looks forward to most, but not so much what's required after they leave.

"My least favorite is all the dishes after the big family dinner," she remarked with a laugh.

Joining Hovey on stage will be Cathy Bowman on the bass guitar. Together, Hovey and Bowman have each played in over a dozen theater bands as far back as 2011, and Bowman said she can't wait to get started again.

"It's a lot of fun being in these DPRCA shows," she said. "Just the camaraderie of the cast and everyone is great, and it's very challenging and I like learning the music. It's just a lot of fun being in the shows, and when the audience is into it and is enjoying it, it just makes me feel good." Like Hovey, Bowman said she enjoys spending time with family on Christmas, in particular her grandkids.

"Opening presents and stuff with my grandkids, that's always fun!" she exclaimed.

Bowman also said her favorite Christmas song is "Hark the Herald Angel Sing," and that her least favorite thing about the holidays is taking down all the decorations.

Last but not least, NR-S sophomore Jacob Louters will join the band for the first time, and he too is looking forward to the experience.

"Just being able to play with a live band," said Louters on what he's looking forward to. "Just because I haven't really had that experience yet."

Louters will be playing percussion for the band, and though he may be new to the band, it won't be his first time on stage.

"I enjoy the energy that people have," he said. "It's just really fun to play and to sing and just the good moments that you can make."

When asked what he enjoys about Christmas, Louters said he always looks forward to the his family's tradition of making and enjoying lefsa. He added that his favorite Christmas song is "Christmas Time," by Go Fish, and that his least favorite part of the holidays is having to stress about buying gifts for his siblings.

Together, the three band-mates will be looking to elevate the DPRCA show experience with their live performance. Unlike some shows where the band plays behind the scenes or off to the side, this band will be center stage. They'll be part of the action and might even get some dialogue!

Be sure to book your seats at http://www.dprca.com. Performances of "A Christmas Survival Guide," will run from Dec. 1 to Dec. 18, and prior to each show the DPRCA will host a Christmas dinner. Call or text (701) 399-9634 to reserve your Christmas dinner table and choose your entree.