The Bohemian Club prepares to host the 100th annual Monte Rio Variety Show in support of the Russian River and Monte Rio communities.

Bohemian Club prepares for Thursday variety show

By Cathy Bussewitz – The Press Democrat, July 24, 2011

There will be laughs, there will be hugs, and there will be world class entertainment under the redwoods.

The Bohemian Club of San Francisco is preparing for the 100th annual Monte Rio Variety Show, an event it hosts every year as a way to give back to the Russian River communities.

This year’s festival will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Monte Rio Amphitheater.

As usual, the names of most performers will not be released in advance, but there will be classical entertainment, comedy acts and a band, said organizer Michele McDonell.

“We never know who the performers are going to be, that’s part of the tradition of the show,” McDonell said. “It’s like a big family reunion.”

One performer McDonell could confirm is John Creighton Murray, a classical violinist who performs every year.

Each year, the Bohemian Club provides the performers, and community volunteers organize the event. Proceeds will benefit St. Catherine’s Church, the Monte Rio School Foundation, and the Monte Rio Fire Services Foundation.

Admission will cost $25 for adults and $5 for children aged 13-17. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, which they can place at the amphitheater after 7 a.m. on Thursday, organizers said. A pre-show barbette begins at 4:30 p.m.

The entrance to the show is behind the Pink Elephant on Main St. in Monte Rio. Call 865-2234 or go to www.monterioshow.org for more information.