The Mesquite Toes’ spectacular “Salute to America” at the Mesquite Community Theater April 4-5 delighted theatergoers with American songs and dance.
The Toes dazzled in their red, white and blue costumes, dancing in front of a backdrop of the American flag to “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “On the Robert E. Lee,” “Yankee Doodle,” “American Kids” and “American Girl,” performed by the energetic Sapphire Jazz Team.
Pericles Rellas, a favorite emcee, kept the audience entertained between acts.
The Jumpin’ Fleas Ukulele Group, all decked out in their Hawaiian garb, strummed the “Armed Forces Medley” and “This Land is Your Land.”
The Mesquite Bell Choir, directed by Malmer, surprised the audience by ringing “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” The audience returned the surprise by singing along with the chorus.
Returning after a great performance last year were the Jessen Family, and they did not disappoint as they sang a rousing “This Land is Your Land, Rocky Top,” but it was “On the Road Again” that most wowed the audience.
The Mesquite Recreation Center’s Life Long Dancers livened up the stage with their vibrant rendition of “Celebration.”
Russ Westwood entertained with good old American cowboy poetry. His recitation of “Ragged Old Flag” was heartwarming and touching.
Audience member Michael Carter moved to Mesquite three and a half years ago. He said, “It is so nice to have something like this in Mesquite. They had nothing like this in Denver, where I am from. I like being patriotic and being around other patriotic people.”
Carol Woodard, a new resident of Mesquite, said, “This is my first time to the theater and first time to see the Mesquite Toes. I love it. They make me think I could do this too.”
Cherrie Kempe, Mesquite Toes president, gave a short talk about the Toes and thanked all the crew and sponsors. The Mesquite Toes will be donating half of their proceeds to the Mesquite Veterans Center. Some of their funds come from the raffle at each performance, made possible thanks to generous donors.
The Toes’ contemporary jazz team closed the show with “God Bless the USA.”