Centre Stage in Greenville is set to host ‘Beehive: The 60’s Musical,’ a high-energy musical journey through one of popular music’s most transformative decades. The production, running June 25-July 12, features hits made famous by female artists such as ‘It’s My Party,’ ‘My Boyfriend’s Back,’ ‘Be My Baby,’ ‘Downtown,’ ‘Respect,’ ‘Proud Mary,’ ‘Son of a Preacher Man,’ and Janis Joplin’s ‘Piece of My Heart’ and ‘Me and Bobby McGee.’

Director’s Vision

The show is largely a revue about an era rather than a traditional plot-driven musical, said director/choreographer Lustra Miller Reid. ‘The storyline is in the music and the stories behind the artists that originally sang the songs,’ Reid said. ‘That’s where the real magic is.’

‘Beehive’ functions as both concert and cultural time capsule, tracing the changing sound — and changing spirit — of the 1960s. Beginning in the era of beehive hairdos, prom dresses and teenage romance, the revue gradually shifts toward the bolder, more emotionally assertive music associated with artists such as Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner and Joplin.

The material carries a personal connection for Reid, who grew up surrounded by the music of the era thanks to her parents. ‘My parents were kids in the ’60s and they would always play a lot of these songs,’ she said. ‘My mom is a huge Aretha Franklin fan, so I’ve been listening to this style of music ever since I was a kid.’

Reid is particularly excited about showcasing the talents of the six-woman cast, who will perform everything from solos to ensemble numbers while paying homage to iconic singers. Adding to the show’s energy will be a live six-member band led by Greg Day, with music direction by Andre Webb.

What: ‘Beehive: The 60’s Musical’
When: June 25-July 12
Where: Centre Stage, 501 River St., Greenville
Tickets: $36.50-$41.50
Info: 864-233-6733 or centrestage.org

Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.