A full slate of talent will honor American veterans during Jae L. and Crossover’s May 17 performance at the historic McSwain Theatre in downtown Ada, Oklahoma. May 17 is Armed Forces Day where America pays tribute to all active-duty soldiers serving the United States.
“It is a very special show for us and is an audience favorite as well,” said Stilwell.
Slated to appear is Lonnie Bartmess, an Allen, Oklahoma, recording artist and veteran of the Vietnam War in the 1960s.
“Lonnie is a wonderful songwriter and musician. He has performed at the McSwain before,” Stilwell said.
“Some of his original songs concern his action in Vietnam as a Marine,” Stilwell said. “Teenager With an M-16” is one of his top tunes, and Bartmess has opened concerts for music giants such as John Anderson, Gene Watson, Mel Tellis, T. G. Shepard and others.
Tim Reich of Sasakwa will join the line up. Reich, a singer and recording artist, has performed at the McSwain before and is an audience favorite.
“He puts on a good show, and people love him,” Stilwell said.
Red River, a group of four talented singers, is scheduled to appear, and Stilwell is thrilled to have them back on the McSwain stage.
“These guys have four-part harmony, cut up onstage, engage with the audience and it is always a pleasure to host them,” she said.
Oklahoma City fiddler and entertainer Lauren Lee will also join the fun. Originally from Holdenville, Oklahoma, Lee and her band recorded their first album in 2009 and continue to be in demand at entertainment venues. Lee was inspired to play fiddle at age 13 when introduced to the music of Allison Krauss.
Show patrons will see several teenage singers who are making their mark in music, Stilwell said.
They include Mary Clare, 16, of Sherman, Texas; Abby Nabors, 14, of Calera, Oklahoma.
“They are just starting out and getting comfortable onstage,” Stilwell said. “We are certainly glad to welcome them to the McSwain.”
Also on hand will be singers Jaylin-Ann Pike, of Oklahoma City; Chandler Elliott, who is a McSwain regular and audience favorite; backup vocalist Debbie Allen and Tara Scott. Scott and her daughter, Ava, will perform “Mama’s He’s Crazy” a mega-hit in 1984 for The Judds.
McSwain Theatre will continue to offer Thursday family-friendly movies throughout May, Stilwell said.
Matinee shows are at 2 p.m. and evening shows are scheduled for 7 p.m.
The movie lineup includes:
May 22, “Rookie of the Year” starring Gary Busey and Thomas Ian Nicholas.
May 29, “The Greatest Showman” starring Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron and Michelle Williams.
For tickets or additional information, visit McSwainTheatre.com.