Rock 'n' roll 'Memphis' to come to the Bedell Performance Hall

This story has been changed from its original publication to correct the date of the performance, which is at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 30.

A touring production of the four-time Tony award winner "Memphis" is coming to the Bedell Performance Hall at Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus for one night only.

Bob Cerchio, assistant director of the River Campus, helped bring the Broadway musical to Southeast. Cerchio saw the musical during the Broadway production in New York City, which he said "exploded off the stage."

"The lights go down, and the performance just explodes," Cerchio said. "When you listen to music through headphones, you're not hearing the full range of the music. When you come to a performance like this, you not only hear the music, you feel it."

Written by David Bryan, keyboard player for the rock band Bon Jovi, "Memphis" was first performed in 2003.

The show is centered on rock 'n' roll, and Memphis, Tennessee, is considered the birthplace of the genre, according to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The show's storyline, inspired by true events, tells of a love story between a radio disc jockey and a singer who each want to make an impact on the world.

As the two become romantic, they find themselves struggling with separation and fame.

"The story is heart-touching, and is very beautiful," Cerchio said. "It is surrounded by one fantastic music number after another. It's really quite amazing."

Cerchio noted audiences should be familiar with the music the performance includes.

"The audience has heard a lot of the songs before, so it will bring back memories for them," Cerchio said. "They should leave humming the songs."

Although the theme revolves around music, the show includes full-production songs that incorporate acting and dancing, as well as singing.

"There are huge full-production numbers with the whole cast coming at you," Cerchio said. "You'll find yourself being pushed back in your seat, not only because of the sound, but the presence of the show."

Produced by Prather Entertainment Group, "Memphis" began touring for the company Jan. 30. In business for more than 45 years, Prather also has produced hit musicals such as "Cats," "Mary Poppins" and "Footloose."

Having entertainment agencies like Prather to bring "Memphis" to Southeast is no more than building relationships, reading about shows and inviting the agencies and their productions to the theater, Cerchio said.

"You open your front door and you say, 'Hey, we have a theater; we want shows,' and all of a sudden you're inundated," he said. "You just develop a knowledge of what is out there."

"Memphis" will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Monday in the Bedell Performance Hall. Tickets are $43 to $49 and may be purchased at the River Campus box office, open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, online at RiverCampusEvents.com or by calling 573-651-2265.