Showcasing their talent

Paul Clinton

NEWPORT BEACH -- Preparations for a musical show to raise funds for

sick children got underway Saturday, as dozens of amateur performers

auditioned for about 90 roles.

Hopefuls twisted through the morning hours and belted out “I Got

Rhythm” as the show’s organizers threw out encouragement and jotted down

notes.

The annual show, known as the “CHOC Follies,” demands a tremendous

commitment from its participants -- including twice-a-week practices and

a commitment to raise at least $500.

All the proceeds of the May show, which will be called “The Slipper

and the Surfer,” will be donated to the Children’s Hospital Foundation of

Orange County.

The Saturday audition was held in a dining room of the Sutton Place

Hotel. A second round is scheduled for Sunday.

“We have to remind ourselves why we’re doing this,” event organizer

Dale Skiler told the assembled group. “It’s not to showcase your

wonderful talents. It’s all about raising money for the children.”

The event has raised an impressive $1 million since it began in 1997.

So far, organizers have collected $176,000 in donations.

Over the years, the follies has been known to attract some of

Newport-Mesa’s brightest lights.

This year, Costa Mesa Mayor Linda Dixon plans to play a bit part.

“This is giving back to the community,” Dixon said, before twisting to

a Beach Boys song. “I’m here because it benefits a good cause. And I’ve

always wanted to be in a musical.”

This year’s show is a modern reworking of the Cinderella fairy tale

set in Orange County.

Those who make the cut will perform the original musical in a tent

across from the Orange County Performing Arts Center. The tent will be

set up on the land that will eventually be used for the new concert hall.

“It’s tailored to Orange County,” said Gloria Zigner, the show’s

executive producer. “The jokes will be about the airport.”