Dick Richards to Perform at Mr. Mature America Pageant in Ocean City

A mature performer for a mature pageant.

Rock’n Roll Hall of Fame Drummer and original member of the legendary “Bill Haley’s Comets” Dick Richards, 91, will perform at this year’s Mr. Mature America Pageant, set for Saturday, March 28 at the Ocean City Music Pier, 7 p.m.

The Ocean City resident still tours with a new edition of the Comets. He has also formed a local group, “The Ready Rockers,” who play Oldies concerts throughout the area.

Richards and his Rockers will perform “Shake, Rattle and Roll” at the pageant.

Richards was also a Broadway actor who performed in over 40 movies and soap operas, including “One Life to Live.”

He is also in West Chester University’s Football Hall of Fame.

The pageant honors the talents and achievements of men age 55 and older. It is the only event of its kind in the world. Mr. Mature America debuted to an enthusiastic audience last year.

“This will be a unique opportunity to enjoy an American Rock’n Roll legend perform, ” said Mark Soifer, founder of the Pageant. “We are fortunate to have such a renowned and generous musician living in Ocean City.”

The performance is free. Proceeds from the pageant, after expenses, benefit the Ocean City Ecumenical Food Cupboard. Last year, the pageant donated $2,000 to charities, Soifer said.

Bubba Mac, founder of the popular Bubba Mac Blues Band, will give a solo performance at the pageant.

Pageant Contestants will dance to “It’s Raining Men,” choreographed by Jessica Albertson, to kick off the show. Albertson produced last year’s opener.

Contestants will also perform a talent, plus talk about their favorite memories, and be judged for an on stage question.

To enter the pageant, call 609-399-6111, ext. 9300, or email msoifer@hotmail.com.

“Memories” is the theme of the Pageant and the event will feature a display of “Memories Memorabilia” by area residents.

This will include treasured keepsakes. The exhibit will be located in the back of the auditorium.

The exhibit opens at 6 p.m., and will be open for a period of time afterward.

Those interested in showing their memorabilia should call 609-399-6111, Ext. 9300. They will receive a free ticket for the evening.

Pageant tickets are now on sale at the information center on the ground floor of City Hall, 9th and Asbury Avenue. They can also be purchased at www.ocnj.us/boxoffice.

Tickets will also be available at the door.

All seating will be reserved.

The attached image is a Patch file photo.

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