Leslie Jordan, jokes and jewelry on tap at CTC fundraiserser

photo Actor Leslie Jordan will be the guest host at a Chattanooga Theatre Centre fundraiser on May 15.

IF YOU GOWhat: Tuesday Night Live.When: 5:30 p.m. Tuesday (reservations due by 5 p.m. today).Where: Chattanooga Theatre Centre, 400 River St.Admission: $100 general admission, $175 VIP ticket, which includes meet-and-greet and photo with Leslie Jordan.Phone: 267-8534.Website: www.theatrecentre.com.

Emmy winner Leslie Jordan returns from Los Angeles this week to host the Chattanooga Theatre Centre's lively "un-gala," Tuesday Night Live.

This local spin on NBC's popular "Saturday Night Live" will offer plenty of jokes from the host, sketches, musical performance and a live auction that includes five big-ticket items ranging from jewelry to getaways.

"I'll start out with stories about making the movie 'The Help.' People love hearing about that," said Jordan of his opening monologue. He might even divulge which cast members got chiggers during the movie's filming in Mississippi before he segues into excerpts from his new one-man show, "Fruit Fly."

"I just go out there and talk, and people have a good time," saw the Brainerd High and UTC alum. "I talk about what's going on in my life."

Jordan joked he's been warned to "keep it clean," which he promises will happen "because my mother will be in the audience."

Jan Belk, CTC spokeswoman, said a jazz trio from Sweet Georgia Sound will play as guests arrive. There will be beverages and food in the lobby before the comedy show in the theater.

Belk said an extended opening monologue by Jordan will open the show, there will be a "Weekday Update" written by George Quick and Judy LaMance, and a performance by The New Binkley Brothers.

Before TNL concludes, five items priced between $2,500 and $5,000 will be auctioned. They are: A "Red-Carpet Ready" party for 12 with makeovers, hairstyling and photos; wine-tasting party with venue, music and wine for 24; a piece of jewelry from Brody Jewelry; sunset cruise aboard a houseboat on Lake Chickamauga with wine and hors d'oeuvres; and a jet trip to Cuscowilla, Ga., for a three-day golf getaway.

Additionally, a silent auction can be found online until Monday. The auction is linked to the CTC website at theatrecentre.com.

TNL reservations are required by 5 p.m. today.

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