In 2019, The Van-Dells will be celebrating 45 years of entertaining audiences of all ages with their unique blend of comedy, choreography and tight harmonies. The Van-Dells have been called “The 3 Stooges set to music”.
There are three main characters in the show are Duke, Mark, and Moose. Each one is a lead singer and each brings a different dimension to the show. The Van-Dells begin their show representing the last graduating class of Van-Dell High School that closed down in 1958.
Stacy P. Todd, better known as Duke, is the no-nonsense tough guy. Duke never smiles and is the brunt of most of the jokes. He keeps the band in line so that things don’t get out of hand and the show can continue. He is happy as long as the show runs smooth. Duke got his name from doing The Duke Of Earl. Duke is an original member that began in 1974. He has been with The Van-Dells for 45 years.
Mark Barnett is the comedian and the nerd of the group. He gives Duke a hard time throughout the comedy portion of the show. His goal is to make Duke smile. He, ad-libs every night to accomplish his goal. Mark specialty segment is Roy Orbison Tribute. Mark joined in 1980. He traveled with “The Vogues” for several years before joining The Van-Dells. This year Mark celebrates his 39th year.
We were pleased to welcome back Steve “Moose” Ricks to the group 4 years ago. Steve is an original member of The Van-Dells. He has returned to reprise his role as the loveable, educationally-challenged jock. He and Mark gang up on Duke with their antics and special brand of comedy. Their goal is to make Duke laugh. In the second half of the show, “Moose” transforms into Steve and delivers a must-see Elvis.
The Van-Dells are a tribute to the ’50s and ’60s. The show begins in the ’50s. Dressed in letter sweaters, The Van-Dells hit the stage running with songs like At The Hop and Morse Code of Love, along with Doo Wop favorites and never slow down. The non-stop show continues with “Glitter and Gold” that made the 1960’s famous. The audience will be taken on a nostalgic trip through time reliving the magical era.
Depending on the show, one or more of the “special guest stars” will appear. Duke Of Earl, Roy Orbison, Elvis, Ray Charles, and others.
The Van-Dells appeal to audiences of all ages with a family show containing music that appeals to everyone. They are comedy, choreography and good harmony. The Van-Dells are “The Nations #1 Rock N’ Roll Review”.
The Van-Dells consist of eleven people, three vocalists that front the show. Five piece band (Guitar, Bass, Keys, Drums & Saxophone). Three on the crew to operate the sound and lighting and handle merchandising. We are totally self-contained with lights and sound if needed. We can create a show to suit your needs. The show is charted to add a horn section to the show if your needs require it.
