MARION -- The stage is getting set at the Pavilion in Marion for a Gala like none other.

"I have a whole lot of surprises," says director Gail Van Ormer.

For the second year, Gail is directing the acts that make up the Hospice of Southern Illinois Celebrity All American Gala Event. Jennifer Vinyard with Hospice says Gail spends months planning and teaching.

"She'll get out and show them exactly what moves she wants them to do and she has it all in her head exactly how she wants it done," says Jennifer.

Then Gail watches as some of that hard work comes to life in a recent sneak preview performance for the Marion VA Nursing home.

"Most of them, I would say, have never set foot on a stage before, which makes it utterly charming when they do," says Gail.

Just WHO is getting involved in this year's All-American theme? Gail has acts young and old... including Marion Mayor Bob Butler and Herrin Mayor Vic Ritter.

"The mayor is playing Ike to Tina Turner," says Gail. "Go from there- it gets worse!"

Representative John Bradley is also getting in on the action. Gail says he'll be involved in a away you've never seen him before.

Gail is no stranger to coordinating fundraising events like this, and she has a history in entertainment.

"I've always been a ham," says Gail. "My husband and I were in community theater from the time we were married which was 47 years ago."

Her husband is a big reason why Gail is so committed to Hospice's cause for providing compassionate in-home care. Don suffered a stroke 10 years ago.

"When you see those things on TV- that your life can change in a second- mine did," she says.

At that point Gail became a full time caregiver. Her passion for helping others- and entertaining a crowd- are what drive this signature fundraising event for Hospice.

"We're a non-profit organization and so all of the money we raise on Saturday night goes right back in here to southern Illinois and helps provide patient and family care for our families throughout the community," Jennifer says.

And from the costumes- to the music- to the choreography, directing this show doesn't feel like work for Gail... it's what she loves.

"It's just kind of in my blood," says Gail. "I like it and now I don't necessarily want to perform, but I want others to know what fun that is."

The All American Gala includes a pre-show Saturday night at 5pm, followed by the show and dinner, as well as an after party. Tickets will be available at the door. If you'd like to make a donation to Hospice, visit http://www.hospice.org.