Just three years ago, a joint Jefferson business and entertainment venue was named the best tourism attraction in the state of Iowa, beating out many other multi-million dollar ventures. Owner of RVP 1875, a world-renowned historical furniture shop and museum, and the History Boy Theatre, Robby Pederson, says there was a bit of a dichotomy in the recognition received in 2016. In addition to being the best attraction, his furniture business and theater were also touted as the best kept secret in the state. Pederson says the furniture portion of the business has been gaining notoriety over the years, but he is working equally as hard to make the theater a regional live entertainment staple.
Pederson opened the business in Jefferson after having been one of the historic furniture builders at Living History Farms for about 10 years. He had also sang in rock bands throughout his college years. After taking opera lessons, he became exposed to musical theater and got hooked, never looking back at that rock career. His idea was to build a production company that has good content, great acting and brings professionals together with local community theater players. Pederson turned the back half of his 22,000 square-foot, 100-year-old lumber yard into a 140-seat theater that has seen around 28,000 guests and is now entering its 11th season.
Pederson says what they specialize in is shows that require an eight- to 12-person cast. They are currently rehearsing for their next production, Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein,” for June performances. About half of the cast is from Greene County and the lead is Charlie Reese, who played the same role for the Des Moines Playhouse a few years ago. There are also several actors who are coming from the Carroll area.
The play also includes Art Valentine from the Dedham area and Ben and Madeline Parrott. For those unfamiliar with “Young Frankenstein,” they are in for a dose of Brooks’ comedic genius in this offshoot of the well-known horror tale by Mary Shelley.
Opening night will be Friday, June 7. Shows will run Friday and Saturday night with a Sunday matinee that weekend and the next. Pederson says if it sells out, they will add another weekend. Tickets will go on sale May 1 and will be $15 each. They can be purchased at RVP 1875, online at showtix4u, a link to which is included below, or you can go to the History Boy Theatre on Facebook for more information.
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https://www.showtix4u.com/events/16432
