Joni and Gina's Wedding facts for kids

Joni and Gina's Wedding is a fun and interactive play where the audience gets to be part of the show! It's a comedy dinner theater, which means you watch a play while eating dinner. The story was created by Marianne Basford and written by Ann Lippert and Marianne Basford. Their company, Hilarity Ensues, brought the show to life. When you attend, you become a "wedding guest" and get to mix and talk with the actors, who play all sorts of interesting characters in the wedding party.

This unique show first opened on June 29, 2002, in Van Nuys, California. Since then, it has been performed in many other places like the Palms and the Hollywood Improv. Some well-known actors, such as Hannah Waddingham and Alison Arngrim from Little House on the Prairie, have even been part of the cast. A part of the money earned from the show was given to the Equality Campaign. This group works to help make sure all people are treated fairly and have equal rights.

In 2004, Joni and Gina's Wedding received an award from Curve magazine. It was recognized for being a positive and important play that celebrated different kinds of love stories and families.

Discover the Story: What Happens in the Play?

Joni and Gina's Wedding tells the story of two families coming together for a special wedding. One family is a traditional military family, and the other is a lively Jewish family. They are all there to celebrate the marriage of their daughters, Joni Gottlieb and Gina Spaulding.

The Wedding Celebration Begins

The fun starts as soon as guests arrive! Everyone gathers in a bar area where appetizers and drinks are served. The actors, playing family members, mingle with the audience, making everyone feel like a real wedding guest.

A Unique Wedding Ceremony

Soon, everyone is guided into the "church" for the wedding ceremony. Joni, who loves sports, and Gina, who is very independent, are about to get married. It's a special moment as these two young people join together.

Party Time: Dinner and Dancing

After the ceremony, a delicious dinner is served, followed by wedding cake and champagne. This is when the real party begins! Guests get to join in many fun activities. There's a playful bouquet toss, and everyone can learn to line dance. The traditional Jewish dance called the Hora is also a big part of the celebration.

Surprises and a Grand Finale

The show is full of surprises that keep everyone entertained. It's like a lively circus of fun! The evening ends with everyone singing along in a big finale, making it a memorable experience for all the "wedding guests."