The wheels on the SEK Trippers bus go round and round.
Charlene Levans, organizer of the SEK Trippers, a group that travels by charter bus to view an assortment of theater productions throughout the year, has a long list of shows planned.
As a child, Levans developed a love for theater. When she was growing up her parents would take her to shows at different venues.
“I’ve even been in a few local shows, too,” she said. “I’m a season ticket holder at the Bowlus and the community theater.”
Levans, rural LaHarpe, began traveling to productions via bus after she retired from teaching fourth grade at Lincoln Elementary School.
From 2000 to 2010 Bill and Marjorie Mentzer organized the trips for the shows. After they retired Don and Kathy Wilmoth took over the tours.
The Wilmoths passed off the baton to Levans in 2012. This is her third year organizing the trips.
The group’s motto is “Life may not be the party we hoped for but while we’re here we might as well, pray, laugh, dance, sing and go on bus trips.”
Levans said those from all over southeast Kansas attend the trips, including those from Iola, Chanute, Humboldt, Garnett and Independence.
The Trippers travel to The New Theatre Restaurant in Overland Park multiple times a year to view shows. This year the theater is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The SEK Trippers will view the musical, “Hairspray,” in June.
“It is the most requested returning show at the theater,” Levans said. “This will be my fourth time seeing it.”
At most shows acting troupes perform but many famous faces have graced the stage as well. The Trippers have seen Cindy Williams from “Laverne and Shirley,” George Wendt from “Cheers,” Mike Farrell from “M*A*S*H,” and Barbara Eden from “I Dream of Jeannie.”
Approximately 40 people travel on the bus but Levans noted lately attendance is closer to 30.
“We go for a matinee on Wednesdays so usually retired people attend,” she said. “However, everyone is welcome to attend. Our next show will be on a Saturday which might be easier for some.”
In the fall the Trippers will travel to Branson for an overnight trip. They’ve seen performances from the 12 Irish Tenors, Yakov Smirnoff and the Oak Ridge Boys, just to name a few.
“Everyone says they have a good time,” Levans said.
To reserve a spot to see “Hairspray,” on Saturday, June 27 contact Levans at 620-228-0430 by Monday.
SEK Trippers ready to hit road again
