Beehive ladies take center stage in this ATI’s 1970s music revue

By VICKIE CORNELIUS PHIPPS
A Seat on the Aisle

Actors Theatre of Indiana (ATI) opened its 2026-2027 season last Friday night, Sept. 4, with the regional premiere of Never Can Say Goodbye! If you love the music of the 1970s, Never Can Say Goodbye: The ’70s Beehive Musical, is a show you’re not going to want to miss.

Running through Sept. 20 at ATI in Carmel in the Studio Theatre at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, this high-energy musical celebration takes audiences on a nostalgic trip through one of the most musically diverse decades ever. And what a decade it was!

The show brings together everything from folk rock and classic rock to hard rock and disco, with terrific renditions of songs associated with artists such as Blondie, Helen Reddy, Heart, Roberta Flack, Donna Summer, Linda Ronstadt, and many more. There is truly something for everyone – and chances are, you’ll find yourself singing along to more than a few of these familiar favorites. What makes Never Can Say Goodbye especially entertaining is the sheer variety. One moment you’re enjoying a beautiful, soulful ballad, and the next you’re transported to the dance floor with the irresistible beat of ’70s disco. The music tells the story of the decade, from its powerful female voices and rock anthems to its unforgettable pop and dance hits.

It’s more than a trip down memory lane; it’s a celebration of the incredible women and artists who helped define the sound and spirit of the ’70s. If you lived through the ’70s, this show will bring back memories. If you didn’t, it’s a terrific introduction to the music that shaped a generation. So put on your bell bottoms, get ready to groove, and head to ATI’s Studio Theatre. Never Can Say Goodbye: The ’70s Beehive Musical is a fun, energetic, and nostalgic evening of music that reminds us just how many great songs came out of the ’70s.

The cast of Never Can Say Goodbye. (Graphic & photo provided)

Returning cast members from Beehive include Rachel Dudt, Michaela McGarel, Kayla Perry, Riley Francis, Kira Rangel and new cast member Deborah Mae Hill, who recently appeared in ATI’s Sunset Boulevard. Together, the six-women cast brings the music and spirit of the decade to life with energy, personality, and plenty of opportunities to showcase their individual talent.

Leading the production is Carol Worcel, ATI’s resident choreographer and a longtime creative force in Indianapolis theatre. Worcel brings a particularly strong connection to this material, having directed and choreographed ATI’s original Beehive. Worcel brings a natural understanding of the style, movement, and energy needed to make this music come alive onstage.

The production is under the musical direction of Ginger Stoltz, whose musical leadership helps create the rich, energetic sound that carries the show. Special shout-out goes to guitarist Bryan Hedrick, whose impressive guitar work is a highlight throughout the production. Costumes are bright and fun; in fact, I recognized a peasant dress that was like the one I wore at my high school graduation!

The show runs through Sept. 20, with a Special Event planned for the second Sunday Talkback on Sept. 13 that includes complimentary beer from Bier Brewery. Tickets and information at atistage.org, or by calling the Fifth Third Bank Box Office at (317) 843-3800.

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