Soldiers set to entertain Wiregrass

By Nathan Pfau, Army Flier Staff WriterJuly 31, 2014

Soldiers set to entertain Wiregrass
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT RUCKER, Ala. (July 31, 2014) -- It's not often that people of the Wiregrass are treated to a free, high-energy, Broadway-style form of entertainment, but the 2014 U.S. Army Soldier Show is providing just that, along with a positive message.

This year's performance, put on by Army Entertainment and the Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, promises a high-octane show featuring some of the Army's best singers and dancers. There will be two shows at the Enterprise High School Performing Arts Center Aug. 12 and 13 at 7 p.m., said Brian Jackson, DFMWR program manager.

"This event is extremely important for not only our military community, but for (surrounding) community members to be able to see the Army put on a fantastic show," said Jackson. "The Soldier Show provides important information creatively throughout the performance to help those that might not understand the Army."

"We always try to offer several fun, energizing events for our Soldiers, Families, retirees and civilians in the Wiregrass," added Janice Erdlitz, DFMWR marketing director. "We know we have a diverse community and we always want to offer something everyone can enjoy."

Although the show is meant as an amazing form of entertainment, it's also meant to educate, said Erdlitz.

"This year's show, 'Stand Strong,' is a proud reminder of how our Soldiers and Families live their lives daily in the Army," said the marketing director. "The show will showcase the strength and character of the Soldiers and the Army. Whether you're civilians or military, you will be able to feel the energy of this show's performance to what it means to be Army Strong."

All performers in the show are active-duty military members and fulfill a one-year temporary duty to perform for the Soldier Show, said Jackson, and the show provides an amazing avenue for Soldiers to showcase their other talents outside their everyday jobs.

"Patrons should definitely come to see the talent these Soldiers have, on top of the ability to fight and protect our country," he said. "Some of the best entertainment shows I have ever seen were by the Soldier Show in the five years I have worked for MWR."

In order to be selected to perform in the show, Soldiers must endure multiple auditions before the final audition in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, said Jackson.

"It is very competitive and definitely an honor for these troops to perform for the Soldier Show, and they are always extremely talented," he said.

"We very proud to be able to share with the entire Wiregrass community the experience of the U.S. Army Soldier Show," said Erdlitz. "We hope everyone will be able to take in one of the two performances being held. It's a great show, and a wonderful opportunity to show your support for the talented Soldier cast and the U.S. Army."

The show is free and open to the public. For more information, call 255-9180.

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