As it was, he had to be persuaded to create the first revue, which was modeled after the famous Follies that Florenz Ziegfeld presented on Broadway in the early 1900s. Geuder has proven himself wrong every year since. He hasn't done so alone, of course. As coordinating director, writer and costume designer, he is part of a small Follies staff that shepherds an army of volunteers through each production. The key ingredients include a loose storyline that weaves together big chorus lines, solos from hit musicals and a comedy sketch or two, courtesy of a volunteer cast that includes kids and retirees alike.
Audiences love it.
Follies has become one of the most popular events in Cedar Rapids. More than 10,000 fans flock annually to the eight performances at the old, elegant theater downtown, drawing people from all over Iowa as well as its four neighboring states. This year's show is rooted in dance music of the past century, including selections from the Jazz Age and Swing Era, Latin beats and Irish step dancing, rock 'n' roll and Broadway hits. With eight shows, Follies never sells out, organizers say. Although people of all ages attend the Follies, retirees account for nearly half of ticket receipts, thanks in large part to the 60 or so tour buses that bring older patrons to the four matinees.