Earl Bates as "Will Rogers in the 21st Century"

This show takes a wry look at our crazy world through the bewildered eyes of beloved long gone cowboy philosopher, Will Rogers. Eighty years after his tragic plane crash, Rogers somehow finds himself present-day Red Cloud as he time travels through America’s pop culture. Using selected classic and familiar songs, he recalls his vaudeville past, pokes fun at the present, and hopes with us, for the future. Assuming the Okie’s persona, Bates combines pre-recorded music with simple props, a few rope tricks, some Broadway song and dance, guitar, harmonica, and audience participation to concoct an event that’s entertaining, informative, thought provoking, and heart-warming.

For over 40 years, award winning actor, musician, educator, and writer, Earl Bates has been performing on stage and screen all across the country. Among many theatrical honors, he received T.A.G.‘s “Best actor in a Musical” award for his performance in the title role of the Omaha Community Playhouse’s production of The Will Roger’s Follies. Long before CNN, Walter Cronkite, FOX News, Judge Judy, Rush Limbaugh, or the Colbert Report, the world looked to Will Rogers for a clever and humorous angle on the truth. Bates borrows from that angle to convey Rogers’ positive message of honor, good will, and tolerance. After all, Will never met a man he didn’t like.

Sponsored By:

South Central State Bank
Mark, Ashley, Johnny, Bethann, Larry, and Connie Bostock