When you think of long running stage productions, you may think of Cats, Wicked, The Lion King or A Chorus Line.  One that you may not think of is a different kind of musical production.  It has been around since the 1930's.  "The Tamburitzans" are an elite but diverse grioup of singers, dancers and musicians that perform and interpret a wide variety of folk dance and music representing international cultures.

 

In the fall of 2018, I had the opportunity to speak with one of their members who is from Altoona.  Dean Maddox was born in Germany, a son to a US Serviceman, but moved to Pennsylvania with his family when he was four.

 

Dean said that he did not grow up with any knowledge of The Tamburitzans. So, he actually learned about the group throughout his first year of college.  When , he realized that he had the opportunity to receive a scholarship plus perform professionally, he jumped at the chance.  He contacted the group's office and arranged a personal audition.  Upon learning of his acceptance, Dean was ecstatic.   

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To read Dean's complete interview, please check out the upcoming book release

They Came From Blair County due out by the end of 2020

 

**Information for this article was obtained through email correspondence with