Talent Overflows At Woodloch’s Theme Shows

The term “Off Broadway” takes on a whole new meaning at Woodloch Pines Resort in the Pocono Mountains, where talented performers grace the stage at the resort’s popular theme shows. A proud Woodloch tradition since 1979, these high-energy shows, held in the spacious nightclub, are always rated “G” for the entire family and feature outstanding singing and dazzling choreography, all provided courtesy of Woodloch at no extra cost to its guests.

This year’s theme, “California Dreamin,” is an exhilarating combination of dancing and music ranging from the 60s, the “Golden Age of Rock and Roll,” through the present, and chronicles the songs of such iconic California groups as the Beach Boys and Eagles. The show also includes solo artists Lady Gaga and Harry Styles, whose connection to the Golden State has been performing at the Coachella music festival in California.

The show opens with a pulsating medley of the legendary music of the Beach Boys, the quintessential California group who rose to the top of the charts with such memorable hits as California Girls, Good Vibrations and Wouldn’t It Be Nice. The 90-minute performance ends with a brief history of the Wrecking Crew, the highly skilled background musicians who provided the instrumental sounds for some of the most famous California-based artists in Rock history.

A highlight of the show is the cast’s rendition of Encanto, the animated musical fantasy comedy film. Staged to brilliant choreography, outstanding vocals and a very creative set, the cast thrills the audience with their imaginative interpretation of We Don’t Talk About Bruno. If Tony Awards were presented to non-Broadway shows, this performance would seal the deal for “California Dreamin.”

There is no shortage of talent here, with singing and choreography that rivals many Broadway productions, staged by both a local cast, several of whom work at Woodloch, along with performers from New York and New Jersey. Sam Abuschinow has been an integral part of the show for 39 years. “I love it,” he says. “There is truly something for everybody in it. I’m very proud to be a part of this production and always have been.”

Held every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer, California Dreamin now only takes place on Saturday nights and will continue through December. Woodloch will debut a new theme show during their “New Year’s package” at the end of the year.

Woodloch Pines, an all-inclusive family resort currently celebrating its 65th year, is part of Woodloch Resort Properties which is comprised of three distinct entities, each within close proximity to one another. Woodloch Springs is an exquisite golf course community with vacation rentals. The Lodge at Woodloch, an adults-only luxurious destination spa, has been widely acclaimed as one of the finest in the country.

In addition to the theme shows, guests are treated to a non-stop array of activities throughout their stay ranging from scavenger hunts to indoor water park fun. Jami Weinstock first started coming here from outside of Philadelphia in 2007. She says, “The feeling you get here is that you really matter because everyone is so friendly and caring.” Nicknamed the “Stealth Pigeons” as they “fly” from activity to activity, the Weinstocks stay for a week and often bring as many as 40 family members. “The warmth, creativity, energy, professionalism and atmosphere of absolute joy is beyond belief. It is truly unique,” she adds.

Attending a Broadway play isn’t always feasible for many people who enjoy a night out at the theater. Woodloch’s professionally produced, high quality shows serve as an excellent alternative.