2017 “America’s Got Talent (AGT)” winner and ventriloquist Darci Lynne performed at the Tift Theatre for Performing Arts before the biggest crowd the theatre has seen in years. Her show in Tifton was a part of her “Up Close and Personal” tour, giving local venues the chance to meet her both on and off the stage.
Lynne opened the show with her classic character from AGT, Petunia the bunny, fitted in her sparkling pink dress. The performance continued with other memorable characters including Oscar the shy mouse, elderly Edna Doorknocker and new characters like
Andy “the handphibian.” Lynne even turned volunteers from the audience into puppets on stage.
Tift Theatre manager Kezia Larry enjoyed the publicity that Lynne’s show brought to the theatre. Larry said, “All ages were here, little babies to a 90-year-old patron. It’s a great opportunity to have something positive for the community to enjoy.” Michael Back was one of the audience members who turned into a puppet on stage with Lynne. “It was awesome. I have a lot of respect for her because I see how much work she puts in being beside her on stage,” Back said.
Back continued, “It’s great for families to have something like this local. I’m glad [Lynne] can create humor for families to enjoy.” Elli McMillan, a regular volunteer who helps in various areas of the theatre, said she was excited when the show was announced.
“When I saw the announcement that she was in Tifton, it felt insane. I watched the entire season she was on AGT,” McMillan said. “She is absolutely incredible,” continued McMillan. “To be able to sing such high soprano notes while being a ventriloquist. She is so talented.”
Lynne’s opening act, Joel Beasley, has joined her on several tour stops and has performed with other well-known comics like Jeff Allen.
Beasley’s wife, Michelle, said, “I’ve been telling him to do comedy for 10 years because he’s so funny. He finally listened to me and now he’s doing a few shows with Lynne.”
The Tift Theatre continues to maintain a full schedule of entertainment. Bands, plays, comedians, and more come to perform with tickets available in advance or at the door.
For more information on ticket pricing and upcoming events, check out the Tift Theatre for Performing Arts Facebook page.