Tibbits Features Fred Astaire and “Magical Musicals” for its Classic Film Series

COLDWATER –Tibbits Classic Film Series celebrates the incomparable Fred Astaire as it presents “Magical Musicals” on the big screen, with “The Band Wagon” and “Funny Face,” Saturday, Feb. 12 at the historic opera house.

“The Band Wagon,” featuring Astaire along with Cyd Charisse will show at 4 pm. Number 17 on the American Film Institute’s list of greatest musicals, it’s a musical about a putting on a musical. One-time Broadway star and Hollywood musical legend Troy Hunter, appropriately played by Astaire, returns to New York at the behest of his friends played by Nanette Fabray and Oscar Levant, to star in their new Broadway musical. They bring in director Jeffrey Cordova played by Jack Buchman who in turns pairs the old hoofer with a prima ballerina played by Charisse. But the pairing and Cordova’s grand, high art vision do not fare well in previews. It's left to Hunter to save the show.

The next “Magical Musical” is number 16 on the AFI list, “Funny Face,” which again stars Astaire along with Audrey Hepburn. In need of a suitable setting for his latest shoot, fashion photographer Dick Avery played by Astaire, requests the use of a bookstore for the day. When the photo session is over, the store is left in a shambles, much to the dismay of Jo the salesgirl played by Hepburn. Later, Avery examines the photos and is intrigued by Jo’s unique appearance, as is his editor at a leading fashion magazine. They offer Jo a modeling contract, which she reluctantly accepts only because it includes a trip to Paris. Eventually, her attitude toward the job softens, and Jo begins to enjoy the work and the company of her charming photographer. “Funny Face” will begin at 6 pm.

Aside from the Oscar Shorts presentation on February 18, admission to the Classic Film Series is free, though donations are accepted.  The theatre will open 30 minutes prior to the first film showing. Concessions, including popcorn and a cash bar, will be available for purchase at Tibbits’ Ghost Light Bar.

The Classic Film Series continues February 18 with Oscar Shorts, April 1 with “Criminal Farces” and May 20 with “The World at War.”

The entire Classic Film Series is generously sponsored by Dr. Matthew Christopher, DDS, PC. A proud supporter of Tibbits Opera House, Dr. Christopher is also a Tibbits Summer Theatre Popcorn Theatre sponsor and corporate member of the historic theatre. Dr. Christopher and his staff provide excellent quality dental care for the entire family. Conveniently located in Union City and Coldwater, they handle most treatments in office, saving patients time and money while crafting smiles to last a lifetime.

All showings will take place at the beautiful historic Tibbits Opera House, 14 S. Hanchett Street, in Coldwater. For more information or a complete listing of shows and events, please visit Tibbits.org.

Cutline: Tibbits Classic Film Series continues with “Magical Musicals” on February 12 with showings of “The Band Wagon” at 4 pm and “Funny Face” at 6 pm.  Thanks to sponsorship by Dr. Matthew C. Christopher, admission is free, though donations are accepted at the door.