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Ever go to the tanning salon to get a summer glow in the winter only to be transported back in time? If all you come out with is a bronze hue, step into the world of Victoria's "Reel Blondes" for a wacky romp through history.

Back for a second year after an extended hiatus, the long-running cabaret returns to the Village Theatre in Danville on Feb. 15 with "Back to the Roots!" Viewers will hitch a ride with salon owner Blondie, as she travels through time in her tanning booth/time machine. As is custom with "Reel Blondes," Blondie will encounter a parade of colorful characters and famous ancestors.

Traveling back in time with show producer Vicki Brooks, the former owner of Victoria's Hair & Spa had to close her Blackhawk salon in 2003 after more than 20 years in business. The new owner continued the show for five years as "Wigged Out," but the laughter didn't last for long.

"The salon sold again and the new owners tore down the stage and lights. Broken hearted we looked for a location to continue the popular Reel Blondes. The show went dark in 2009," Brooks said.

Last year, she made a deal with her husband, who she also refers to as Bargain Bob, that the show could go on for five years as long as the first year broke even with his checkbook.

"Oprah said on her closing show 'Be passionate about what you do.' I am passionate about making people laugh and I realized that it was time to bring back the Blondes. And so we did," Brooks said. "Instead of a hair salon, patrons walked through an amazing little art gallery to the delightful theater nestled in the historic downtown area. Obviously, Danville was still in need of some laughter because we sold out all 14 performances."

Brooks told the Express that opening night 2012 was the happiest day of her life.

The "Reel Blondes" time machine will run through March 9 with Friday and Saturday shows at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Visit victoriasreelblondes.com for tickets.

Amelia Arvesen contributed to this story

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