That's Entertainment: SAB Choral Octavo

Alan Billingsley's arrangement captures the theatrical DNA of the original while building genuine excitement for SAB choirs. The spotlight solo opening gives your soloists a moment to shine, and the bouncy 2-beat swing invites natural choreography without requiring it. This is the kind of showstopper that works equally well as an opening number or a concert closer, and the recorded accompaniment gives even smaller programs access to that full Broadway orchestration.

The piece radiates pure showbiz joy. You hear the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood blended with contemporary swagger, all wrapped in a melody that feels both familiar and freshly arranged. The arrangement sparkles, bounces, and builds toward a finish that begs for an ovation.

This octavo works for intermediate to advanced SAB choirs seeking a high-energy concert piece with real star potential. It suits youth choirs, community choirs, and high school programs looking for something that energizes both singers and audiences without demanding soloistic virtuosity.

• Nail the rhythm of the 2-beat feel early in rehearsals. Mark beat 1 and beat 3 prominently so the ensemble locks into the swagger rather than pushing ahead.
• Balance the spotlight solo carefully against the choir entrance. The solo should feel like a true feature moment, not lost in the overall texture.
• Commit to clarity on the text, especially in the faster sections. Dietz's lyrics are witty and deserve to land with the audience.
• If you're adding choreography, start with the kick-line suggestion toward the finish and build backward. Let the ensemble discover where movement feels organic rather than imposed.

This functions beautifully as a concert opener that sets an upbeat tone immediately, or as a finale that leaves the audience grinning. It also pairs well on programs celebrating Great American Songbook standards or showcasing contemporary reinterpretations of classic material. The theatrical flair makes it an ideal choice for spring pops concerts or end-of-year celebrations.

• Singing in a swing 2-beat feel with appropriate rhythmic placement
• Balancing ensemble blend while maintaining clear diction in faster passages
• Responding to soloist features and ensemble entrances with precision
• Integrating choreography with singing while maintaining vocal focus