In honor of the Polka Queen and leader of “Ruth Adams & The World’s Most Dangerous Polka Band” who reigned at Nye’s for over 35 years...
Ruth Adams (1932-2011)
With the passing of one of the films leading characters and the leader of “The World’s Most Dangerous Polka Band,” the widely known and loved Ruth Adams (1932-2011), this amazing musician put the music into hundreds of thousands of guests while playing likely over 200,000 songs during her band’s reign.
“Not only is Ruth Adams and The World’s Most Dangerous Polka Band special for their longevity as musicians, and loyalty as a band, but they are special for sharing the gift of song, proving that following your passions into your twilight years, is not only possible, but also is an enduring way to fill your life and those around you with love.”
Sonya “Sonny” Tormoen,
Director “The World’s Most Dangerous Polka Band” and grateful Friend of Ruth and the band.
Limited supply left of
these timeless memories!
“A lovingly warm and wry look at three musicians who make up the most unlikely band in the Twin Cities.”
The World’s Most Dangerous Polka Band might be called that due to its most ancient member — Al Ophus, aka “the drummer man.” At 88 years old, Al climbs up on stage with band members Joe Hayden (trumpet) and Ruth Adams (accordion) at one of the most popular lounge and supper clubs in the heart of Minneapolis — Nye’s Polonaise. Though he misses the beat frequently and often times changes song mid-tune, he gets away with it by the sheer fact that he’s there! Like most guys in bands, he loves the ladies and claims he kisses fifteen girls a night. Guys love him because it gives them hope for their own future! For job security, Al assumes the role of stocking the bar’s six bathrooms with rolls of toilet paper — his “job in the cans.” Rounding out the trio are Joe, a middle aged computer programmer who pursued playing trumpet in his 50s, despite being told he was too old and his lips were too big, and Ruth — the boss of the band because she’s been on the stage the longest (30 years... as long as Aerosmith). These fearless musicians and human beings take risks most people never have the balls to live out at any age. Ancient Al even tries to bribe his Film Director to a date and marriage. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry. You may even re-ignite your own dreams. Act your age? Never!