Heywood Banks to Bring Laughter and Music to The Old Theater
By Emma Palova | contributing writer
Renowned comedian Heywood Banks, aka Toastmaster General, will take the spotlight at the historic The Old Theater (TOT), in downtown Lowell, on Dec. 8 and Dec. 9. Banks, renowned in the realms of comedy and music, brings life’s mundane observations to light with his signature wit and infectious tunes. His real name is Stuart Mitchell, and he was born on April Fool’s Day in 1950.
Banks is a writer and performer of humorous songs, his most famous one being Toast. The story of the song goes back to 1986 when he was browsing at a Salvation Army store for props for his act. He bought an old toaster, thinking he would make toast during his act. Later his wife said she was looking forward to having toast the next morning, and Banks started improvising about toast while playing a bongo.
Banks opened for bands, hitchhiked thousands of miles, and never had a plan B; he was the class clown, who was ADD and never applied himself,” according to his About statement on Banks website. Owners of TOT, Lisa and David Reed, are committed to preserving the historic venue, continuing their mission by offering family-friendly entertainment and generating revenue for the restoration of the structure. “Each show promises an unforgettable blend of humor and music, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and holiday cheer,” co- owner, David Reed, said.
Whether you’ve heard Banks on HBO, Showtime, or the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Morning Radio Show singing his famous Toast and She’s the One Eyed One I Love, songs, now is your chance to experience him up- close and hear holiday classics like, You Ain’t Getting Diddly Squat, Dear Mr. Santa Claus, Cash Cash Cash, and Christmas Steve in Lowell’s historic Strand Theater.
“The way pre-show tickets have been selling, there is sure to be a lively crowd in attendance,” Reed said.
“We’re anticipating an enthusiastic audience.” In light of the ticket sales, the Reeds have added a second show on Saturday.
TOT was built in 1928 as the Strand Theater and served as a movie theater in downtown Lowell until 1985. It then became a furniture store, and has, most recently, been known as Larkins’ Other Place. Banks is scheduled for two appearances at The Old Theater: Friday, December 8, and Saturday, December 9. Doors open at 7 pm, and the show begins at 8 pm. Tickets, ranging from $35 to $50, are available for purchase at
www.theoldtheater.com or by calling (616) 897-0007. Attendees can enjoy dinner at one of Lowell’s fine eateries before walking over to the theater, or indulge in the typical theater fare of cold pop and hot popcorn during the show.
“Spread the word and invite your friends, especially those who have a love for toast!” Reed said.
