What: "Always...Patsy Cline," presented by Capital City Players at Shikles Auditorium in Jefferson City
When: Jan. 15-18 and 22-25; 6:30 p.m. Thurs-Sat. and 12:30 p.m. matinee on Sundays
Tickets: $35 with dinner by Argyle Catering at 573-681-9012 or capitalcityplayers.com
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The two-woman musical based on the life of country music legend Patsy Cline is the latest production by Capital City Players.
The plot is based on the true story about Cline's friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger. Seger befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in 1961 and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death in a plane crash in March 1963.
The show has down home country humor, true emotion and even some audience participation.
There are 27 songs featured, including favorites such as "Crazy," "I Fall to Pieces," "Sweet Dreams" and "Walking After Midnight."
"I directed the "MOMologues," for Capital City Players but this is the first musical I have directed," Kathleen Lavery said.
Assistant to Lavery is Deborah Tragasz. Musical director is Brandon Sankpill and his band, composed of four to five members, plays live on stage. Ken Thompson is the lighting technician and Kip Neblett is set design and construction.
The set consists of several levels that serve as a kitchen, the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, a bar and a radio station.
"I did not know anything about Patsy Cline going into the show and have learned what a great star she was," Lavery said.
"After country music declined in popularity with the advent of rock "n' roll, it was Patsy Cline and her songs that brought it back to life for the American public," Lavery said.
Cline is played by Sarah Dent and Louise Seger is played by Amy Pringer.
According to Lavery, when audiences hear Dent sing they will hear Patsy Cline.
"She has really worked hard and listened to Cline's music in order to get the tones and nuances perfected," Lavery said.
Pringer brings a vivacious character to the stage in her portrayal as a loyal fan and then good friend to Cline.
Lavery said that she was very grateful to Rob Crouse for giving her the opportunity to direct and also for bringing the popular show to Jefferson City.
The show is for all ages, and Lavery said tickets are selling quickly.