|
Clubhouse
Viva Kiwanis in Lapeer
Sometimes, what happens in Kiwanis, stays in Kiwanis. And for that, Lapeer, Michigan, Kiwanians are grateful (wink, wink). For the past 58 years, their club has staged its annual “Kiwanis Kapers,” a sort of variety show that’s part vaudeville and part Vegas, part extravaganza and part exposition, part oom pah pah and part ooh la la.
A new generation of rockers takes the Kiwanis Kapers stage. |
“The popularity of Kiwanis Kapers has grown to the point where it is now our biggest fundraiser of the year,” notes Kiwanian Sally Eilersen. The reason: variety—and spice. In other words, anything goes.
“We try to come up with a topical and often offbeat theme each year,” Sally explains. “Kapers is performed by members of our club and includes a variety of acts, from song and dance revues to skits, from solo acts to ensembles. This is one show to which you can bring both your children and your parents. It’s good, clean fun, and we’ve even had people join our club just so they could be in the show.”
Sally says the club’s most recent show—Viva Kiwanis Vegas—featured quick-witted comedians, talented dancers, top musical acts, and the Kiwanis Kuties, a longtime favorite troupe of “showgirls,” all of whom bear a striking resemblance to men in the club. Previous themes include My Big Fat Kiwanis Wedding, Phantom of the Kapers, and a re-creation of the movie Titanic, without the boat sinking, of course. Others have incorporated visitors from outer space and pirates.
Proceeds are earmarked for a number of child-related agencies in Lapeer, including the Family Literacy Center, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H, and the Key Club of Lapeer East High School. |
