Today we’re diving into a slice of local history that’s both inspiring and enlightening!
Join us as we journey back to the days of World War I, unveiling the remarkable story of the Hello Girls brought to life by the Kankakee Valley Theater Association in their upcoming production.
The Inspirational Story of the Hello Girls
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Sharla Ronchetto, who is directing the KVTA’s new musical “The Hello Girls.” Set to premiere at the end of July 2024, this production shines a spotlight on the brave women who served as telephone switchboard operators during World War I—a vital yet often overlooked role in military history.
A Historical Milestone: Women in the Military
Sharla shared with us the historical backdrop of the Hello Girls, noting how they revolutionized military communications. According to Sharla:
“The telephone operators applied for the job, took the army oath, wore army uniforms, and had dog tags—but were denied veteran status until 1977.”
These unsung heroines not only navigated the complexity of manual switchboards but also tackled the challenges of operating in an international setting, often needing to speak French fluently. It’s a tale of perseverance, skill, and resilience that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.
Authentic and Engaging Storytelling
The musical, written in 2018 to commemorate the centennial of the Hello Girls’ service, is based on real-life events and people. The lead character, Grace Banker, was the chief operator of the first women’s unit. The show uses diaries and letters from the era to faithfully recreate their experiences. As Sharla noted:
“Some dialogue and stories come directly from the women’s diaries and letters home, making this portrayal as authentic as possible.”
A Multi-Talented Cast
The talent in this production is nothing short of phenomenal. Sarah Sheehan takes on the lead role of Grace Banker, delivering a performance that has already garnered high praise. Other standout cast members include McKenzey Testerman, Izzy Kostbade, Asia Rogers, and Rachel Tobey-Barrows, each bringing their unique talents to this powerful story.
The Music: A Melodic Masterpiece
One of the most captivating aspects of “The Hello Girls” is its music. Sharla described it as:
“A blend of Broadway-style hits, 60s-inspired melodies, and intricate harmonies that bring a fresh yet nostalgic energy to the show.”
With a live nine-piece pit orchestra conducted by Mike Schneider, the musical sets the stage for an unforgettable auditory experience.
Performance Dates and Tickets
Don’t miss out on this inspiring production. Mark your calendars for Friday, July 26th through Sunday, July 28th, with performances at 7:00 PM on Friday and 2:00 PM matinees on Saturday and Sunday. The show will take place at the KVTA’s Black Box Theater, One Stuart Drive, Kankakee, IL.
Secure your seats and immerse yourself in this incredible piece of history brought to life.
Celebrating Unsung Heroes
“The Hello Girls” is more than just a musical; it’s a celebration of the unsung heroes who paved the way for women in the military. Their story, filled with trials, triumphs, and tenacity, offers a poignant reminder of the past and inspires us to appreciate the present.
Thank you for joining me on this journey back in time. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to the Kankakee Podcast and follow us on social media. And to our Patreon supporters, your contributions keep our local stories alive.
Until next time, this is Jake LaMore, signing off with a heart full of local pride. Stay tuned for more stories from the heart of Kankakee County!
