The Encore Theatre is set to kick off its 2022-2023 season with Bye Bye Birdie, September 16-18 & 23-25, and will be performed at Sunrise Theatre, 250 NW Broad St. Downtown Southern Pines. This wildly nostalgic musical tells the story of a rock star determined to boost his popularity with one last publicity stunt before entering the army . It's sure to have you dancing and singing along in your seat!

A loving send-up to 1950's small-town America, teenagers, and rock & roll, Bye Bye Birdie remains as fresh and vibrant as ever. Teen heartthrob Conrad Birdie has been drafted, so he chooses All-American girl Kim MacAfee for a very public farewell kiss. Featuring a tuneful, high-energy score, bouncy teens, and a hilarious script, Bye Bye Birdie continues to thrill audiences around the world.

"Even though the play takes place in the 1950's, it is still easy for us to relate to the story today. It has held up through generations. Not only young love and rock & roll, but it also relates to growing up from adolescence to teenagers" says Director Rhonda Brocki, "Bye Bye Birdie may be set in 1958, but it could also be set in 2022."

Commenting on the production of this toe-tapping classic, Kevin Dietzel, Sunrise Theater's Executive Director, said, "We've loved the idea of working with the Encore Center on a performance. In a community as tight-knit as ours, it is amazing to have neighbors in theatre who are friendly and willing to support each other. The Encore Center always produces high quality work, so we jumped at the opportunity for this partnership."

This fun-for-the-whole-family show is put on in partnership with MALES of Distinction. Founded in 2017, this organization provides mentoring programs for ages 8-18, teaching valuable life skills such as decision making and financial management. These incredible youth are helping put this show together any way they can, including serving as ushers for performances.

Opening Night will be Friday, September 16th at 7:30pm, and the show will play Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm as well as matinees on Saturdays & Sundays at 2pm through September 25th.

Tickets range from $17-$25 and can be purchased at www.sunrisetheater.com