If you remember the television show, “Hee Haw”, then you have an idea of the entertainment provided by the production of “Hoo Haw” Saturday night at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

To help kick off the celebration of the 120th anniversary year of the Opera House and the 10th anniversary year of major renovations to the building, “Hoo Haw” was performed on stage. The show was a production by actors at the Columbian Theater in Wamego.

There were corny jokes, country and gospel music, an impersonation of Minnie Pearl and plenty of laughter for the audience that included Keith Ascher. “Oh, it just brings back a lot of good memories, good wholesome fun that we used to grow up watching TV.  When he asked if he watched Hee Haw in the past Ascher stated, “Religiously.” Deb Andres enjoyed the gospel groups that performed, noting they had done an awesome job, while Florence Whitebread enjoyed the music. “I just like the whole way the show was being done. It’s a cute, fun show.”

Opera House Co-Director Joe Markley said the Columbian Theater has been performing this show for 11 years, noting it’s basically a take-off on Hee Haw. “It’s a great live band, great singing, funny jokes and just a very entertaining evening. Markley during the 120th year celebration officials want to celebrate the Opera House still being in existence and moving forward into the future. The building was first built in 1882 but a fire in 1898 caused major damage  and the facility was then rebuilt that same year.

The activities Saturday evening also included an outdoor block party in front of the Opera House where the Junction City Little Theater, Smithfield and Freddy’s all provided food for that event.