AMERICUS — The 2015-2016 Friends of the Rylander Theatre’s Presenter Series kicks off on Friday, Sept. 18 with a USO-style performance from The Manhattan Dolls. They are a New York City-based swing-style vocal trio with the sound of the Andrews Sisters. Started by former USO Girls, The Dolls travel the world performing for military events, parades, jazz clubs, concert series and theaters like the Rylander. The performance will be a sentimental journey through the Great American Songbook — featuring hits like “Chattanooga Choo Choo” and “In the Mood.” The Dolls will recognize and honor all of the men and women in the military during the show.
Next on the roster are The Broadway Boys on Friday, Oct.  16. This is a once in a blue moon opportunity to have a front row seat for some of Broadway’s hottest leading men without having to go to NYC. This six-man super group is made up of professional working actors who perform with the Broadway Boys in between productions. The lullaby of Broadway will be impossible to resist as these leading men bring to life the hits from shows such as Wicked, Hair, Finnian’s Rainbow, Big River, The Lion King and more. Their arrangements of the songs are fresh and innovative, breathing new life into old theatre standards.
After a mid-season break, the performances resume on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016. The McCartney Years is hailed as “the best on the scene today” by legendary Beatles promoter Sid Bernstein. The performance is true to form, technically stunning, and sonically explosive. The band’s commitment to the authentic Paul McCartney concert experience is what makes them the most in demand group of their kind. Fans will hear favorites such as “Live and Let Die,” “Let It Be,” and “The Long and Winding Road.”
The season finale will be the much anticipated return of Craig A. Meyer as Almost Elton John, but this time he’s bringing the whole Rocket Band. Remember When Rock Was Young: The Elton John Tribute takes the stage on Saturday, April 2, 2016. Meyer promises an updated show with new songs, new costumes, and of course new band members sharing the stage with him. This concert extravaganza will serve as the Friends of the Rylander’s annual “friend-raising” gala.
An “Early Bird” discount is available on memberships until  Sept.17. Complimentary tickets for each show in the season are available through the varying levels of membership in the Friends. Each membership supports the programming, educational outreach, and historic preservation efforts of the organization. To join the Friends of the Rylander or renew your membership, visit www.rylander.org or call the Box Office, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday.