The Emma Kelly Theater was brought to life Thursday evening as Five by Design put on a show that audience members will not soon forget as it debuted its big band era entertainment in the play “Club Swing.”

Audience members applauded for and sang to tunes performed by both actors and actresses Lorie Carpenter-Niska, Kurt Niska, Michael Swedberg, Sheridan Zuther and Terrence Niska. Having been in Statesboro back in 2004 to perform another one of its plays, Five by Design was invited back due to its success with the show “Radio Days”.

The show really took the crowd back in time with its old fashioned sounds, thanks to the band accompaniment. Although it consisted of only a piano, a set of drums and stringed instruments, the band filled the entire theatre with their swing era music. In addition to its music, the group emphasized its past-era vibe with signature 1930s pin-up dos, glamorous and glitzy styled evening gowns, as well as zoot suit styled men’s wear.

“Club Swing” dazzled in the background right behind the band on the brightly lit stage. Paired with costumes, palm trees and memorable music, the crowd recalled the setting from long ago.

“I can remember mama playing these songs while cooking,” audience member Nell Godbee said.

Some of the music for the night included tunes like Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” Johnny Mercer’s “Something’s Gotta Give” and Joe Garland’s “In the Mood.” Ranging from war tunes to jazz era hits, the band delivered everything the crowd wanted and more.

Similar to other performances, there was a story to be told that had a moral lesson in the end. Club Swing was a big club that could be compared to other high end establishments, such as The Copa Cabana and The Stork Club. What had once stood so high and mighty was going to be torn down and transformed into a shopping location. Joe Sullivan was the club’s mixologist and was devastated by its awaiting fate. By the conclusion of the production, Joe had saved the day and taken Club Swing to be his own. It reopened its doors and took everyone a step back in time once again.

The Averitt Center is known for its various forms of entertainment and entertainers that go on stage for performances, and “Club Swing” was one that was highly praised.