Schofield’s July 4 Stage Has Billy Ray

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Vanita Rae Smith

One of the many faces behind Schofield Barracks’ Fourth of July Spectacular, Vanita Rae Smith, was recently honored for her 40-year career in the Army theater world - which she’s drawn on to plan entertainment for the 37th annual Independence Day party for Central Oahu folks.

The Army Community Theatre producer/director will pick up the David C. Bryant Outstanding Service Award from the American Association of Community Theatre in July during a special luncheon at Sardi’s in New York City.

“It was such a surprise and such an honor,” said the lifelong civil servant who’s spent nearly all of her career in Army theater both here and at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. “It’s very exciting - all the press that’s happening. Even my hometown news picked up the story. It’s always an honor when I receive the commendation certificates and the coins (from the military). This one is a national award, and it really blew me away to be recognized at a national level by my peers.”

Smith has served on several theater boards and councils, appeared in 16 biographies, directed 124 plays including musicals, and has presented 82 celebrity concerts, including this year’s July 4 event at Schofield Barracks. “I’ve always been involved with the Army’s Fourth of July - setting up the stage and doing all the entertainment,” she said.

“I’ve got Billy Ray Cyrus coming this year - he’s not bringing his daughter (Miley),” she added, laughing. “And we always do the 1812 Overture with live cannons. I write a different script each year called The Flags We Follow. It’s literally a history of the Army. The people who come to Schofield are coming for the traditional activities. Ours is really a celebration; it’s more laid back. We end with fireworks.”

Gov. Linda Lingle will sign a covenant agreement between the Army and the state of Hawaii during a special ceremony, a symbolic act where they pledge mutual support. “It’s a real nice thing,” said Smith.

Festivities are at Sills and Desiderio fields, beginning at 9 a.m. with a 5K run, followed by a children’s 1-mile run at 10. After that, both military families and the public can enjoy a Native American tribal powwow, crafts, new products bazaar, pony rides, games, rides and inflatables, and food booths.

The stage opens at 11 a.m. with various entertainers. At 5 p.m., it’s the flag retreat, followed by the Billy Ray Cyrus concert at 5:05. Also planned: prize drawings, a band concert, and the fireworks at 9. For more information, call 656-3157.

Smith, meanwhile, opens ACT’s 66th season in September at Fort Shafter’s Richardson Theatre with Oliver!, followed by Disney’s High School Musical and Curtains. Call 438-4480.