A Honey of a Show

Reviewed by Vicki Stokes

Major changes occurred during the 1960s in politics, civil rights, youth culture, and women’s rights. Music also changed, and along the way, many outstanding women made a name for themselves. The girl groups who wore short skirts and big hair gave way to strong, long-haired women wearing boho-style pants. The music evolved from harmonies about boyfriends and breakups to power ballads with depth of emotion. Beehive: The ‘60s Musical is now playing on the South Huron stage following its run at the King’s Wharf Theatre. This vibrant production takes us on a visual and musical journey through this “far out” decade, showcasing the talents of six remarkable women.

Beehive isn’t technically a musical; it’s a musical revue that highlights dramatic upheavals in the ‘60s, through narrative, dance and songs made popular by women. The song choices are those of American creator Larry Gallagher. On a Canadian stage, it would be nice to hear a little Joni Mitchell, for example. Still, most of the songs are familiar, as are the references to Kennedy and MLK assassinations, the Vietnam War, the British Invasion and Woodstock. Again, some Canadian history, such as the 1967 Centennial celebrations or Expo ’67 would be interesting.

The stage features oversized, groovy flowers, a vibrant symbol of peace that was popular in the 1960s. With frequent costume changes, colourful outfits, and thoughtful choreography, this show is fast-paced and visually impressive. The pastel colours in yellow, green, orange and pink, the go-go boots, and hairspray take you back in time. The protest signs, demanding integration, jobs, and equal rights, symbolize a time when “heavy” was the appropriate slang word.

If you don’t “dig” a little audience participation, try not to sit up front near the stage. “The Name Game” may find you squirming!

Some of the best moments of the first act include Alyssa Curto’s stunning performance of “You Don’t Own Me,” demonstrating how women were demanding to be more than arm candy and doormats. Georgia Bennett’s rendition of “To Sir with Love” was also hugely popular with the audience. Incidentally, this song rose to #1 in Canada in 1967.

The second act features several powerful songs by Tina Turner, including the smash hit, “Proud Mary”. Jade Kimaya doesn’t mimic Tina, but is strong in her own right. Sarah Nairne as Aretha Franklin, knocks it out of the park! Annelise Forbes is phenomenal performing Grace Slick’s “Somebody to Love”, and Alicia D’Ariano sings a fantastic version of Janis Joplin’s “Bobby McGee”.  All six women in this show are strong in their various roles, and you will have a lot of “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” for their talents. The lively finale is something to BEEhold.

If the idea of an all-female cast musical revue of the 1960s appeals to you, whether you are young and curious or you want to relive some of your hippie days, this colourful, flower power show is definitely for You, You, bo bou, Banana fana fo fou, Fee fi mo mou, You.

Beehive: The ‘60s Musical continues until August 31st at Huron Country Playhouse, South Huron Stage. Tickets are available by calling the Box Office at 519-238-6000, or Toll-Free at 1-855-372-9866, or by checking www.huroncountryplayhouse.com for availability.

Photo: Alyssa Curto, Sarah Nairne, and Alicia D’Ariano. Photo by Drayton Entertainment.

Beehive: The ‘60s Musical
Created by Larry Gallagher
Directed and Choreographed by David Connolly
Music Director – Nico Rhodes
Performed by Georgia Bennett, Alyssa Curto, Alicia D’Ariano, Annelise Forbes, Jade Kimaya, Sarah Nairne
South Huron Stage, Huron Country Playhouse, Grand Bend
August 7 – 31, 2025
Reviewed by Vicki Stokes