'Gong Show' Revival Stars East Meadow Dancer

When people think of the "Gong Show", thoughts of an amateur talent contest with absurd humor and ridiculous prizes come to mind. The show, which claimed its fame through the 70s and 80s, is back. And Elizabeth Mooney, an East Meadow resident, is a part of it.

Mooney is the founder of The Wild Cherryz burlesque, and she has been dancing for as long as she can remember.

"I started my training in dance schools such as June Meyers, Carol's School of Dance and Betsey Dickserson's Performing Arts and Dancesenation, which is formally from East Meadow," Mooney said.

Mooney has also performed in various Atlantic City casinos, such as Caesars, the Taj Mahal and Showboat.

"Performing in Atlantic City is amazing," Mooney said. "The energy there and feel of the huge hotels and loud casinos just makes it that much more fun.  I love it cause its like a mini Vegas and so close to home."

Now, Mooney, and all of the other "Gong Show" performers, will have one last performance in New York City before taking their show on the road in 2011. The Halloween-themed event will take place on Oct. 31 at 8 p.m. at BB King's on West 42nd St. in Times Square.

Leslie Gold, known nationally as "The Radio Chick" from her radio days, is now the Gong Show's producer, and she has been very impressed with the work that Mooney and the other Wild Cherryz have done.

"The Wild Cherryz are a great addition to 'The Gong Show Live' cast, as they are tantalizing eye candy with talent," Gold said. "The audience goes nuts for them."

The performance is a 16-act show that is judged by a panel, and performances that are deemed unbearable are "gonged." Popular New York City comedian Ray Ellin will be the show's host.

"On Halloween the Gong Show is in full gear," Mooney said.  "You can expect excitement, craziness, fun, tantalizing acts and one of the best nights out that you have had in a long time."

When she is not dancing her socks off, Mooney teaches dance and Zumba at United Methodist Church in East Meadow.

"Teaching Zumba and dance is very important and special to me because it is a great way where we all can have a great intense workout, learn how to dance, release tension and have fun while you are doing it," Mooney explained.

After the tour is done, Mooney plans to open up her own dance studio "somewhere around East Meadow."

For more information on Saturday's show, visit bbkingblues.com. For tickets, visit the B.B. King's box office, call Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 or visit ticketmaster.com.