Sammy, Deano and Old Blue Eyes in the Swinging ‘60s. Life in a decadent European cabaret in 1929. And the music of one of the 70s biggest pop groups.

All will come to life on the stage of Greenville’s historic Ritz Theatre when the 2009-2010 season of the Greenville Area Arts Council (GAAC) gets underway this autumn.

Three productions are on tap: On October 20, “Rat Pack Encore,” with a trio of actors performing as the legendary Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra as they bring a swinging Las Vegas party atmosphere to Greenville.

February 15, 2009 will bring English lass Sally Bowles strutting her stuff at Berlin’s Kit-Kat Club in the award-winning musical “Cabaret.”

And the season will close out on March 8, 2010 with a musical nostalgia trip provided by “ABBA-Mania,” billed as the world’s number one ABBA tribute production.

“We have three great shows lined up that offer a variety of music and entertainment this season,” said GAAC executive director Nancy Idland.

“Now, we need those who love the arts to help support our efforts.”

A season subscriber/sponsorship drive for the GAAC is currently underway.

The normal ticket cost per show is $20 for adults and $15 for students. However, season ticket subscribers can purchase a season pass for $40 for adults and $30 for students – getting three shows for the price of two.

“We appreciate all our season ticket subscribers. However, ticket sales alone cannot cover the costs of mounting these professional productions here in Greenville,” said Idland.

While the success of the Ritz Player musical fundraisers has brought in some much-needed monies each spring, those funds are still not enough to cover the approximate $30,000 cost to bring the shows to town, Idland said.

“We definitely need your support through membership donations, given in addition to the cost of season tickets,” the GAAC director said. “Memberships start at just $25, and provide you access to our fabulous post-production parties and an opportunity to meet the artists. You will also see your name printed in our season program.”

Another bonus provided by GAAC membership, says Idland: the knowledge you have contributed to bringing the magic of live stage productions to small-town Alabama.

Season ticket and membership donations are tax-deductible and due by September 15.

For more information, visit gaac-ritz.com or contact Nancy Idland at (334) 354-2802.