Playhouse Merced to tap Grand Ole Opry for gala

A night of classic country entertainment is in store at Playhouse Merced’s annual gala, its largest fundraiser of the year.

The event, which is themed “A Night at the Opry,” is 6:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday in Bob Hart Square, where Canal and Main streets meet. The gala supports the theater’s community programs.

The fundraiser will take on a decidedly different look than last year, which carried a classic Las Vegas style. But, the show is expected to offer an array of entertainment from impersonators of classic country artists who have graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, a well-known concert hall in Nashville, Tenn.

“We’re doing some Patsy Cline, some Johnny Cash – just running the whole gamut,” said Rob Hypes, the Playhouse artistic director.

While the funds from the gala help Playhouse Merced put on its productions throughout the season, the money also helps the theater with its community programs. For example, Playhouse Merced has theater classes for young people, after-school programs and tour programs for elementary schools. The volunteers and staff visit the schools and perform theater for the children.

Playhouse also recently announced its lineup for the upcoming season, which kicks off at the end of the month.

For ticket availability, go to the Playhouse Merced box office, 452 W. Main St., or call 209-725-8587.

For more, go to playhousemerced.com.

This story was originally published August 13, 2015 at 2:54 PM with the headline "Playhouse Merced to tap Grand Ole Opry for gala."