This original stage show, the very first actually musical inspired by the enduring friendship of Minnie Pearl, Brenda Lee, Dottie West, Loretta Lynn and Pasty Cline tells in rich theatrical terms the story of the dreams and challenges Minnie Pearl, Brenda Lee, Dottie West, Loretta Lynn, and Patsy Cline, the first female country and western singer to "crossover" to pop success, had on the path to fame.
It was a friendship not only rich in music, but also one that endured even after Patsy Cline’s death in a plane crash in 1963, soon after she had turned 30. The musical covers the last seven years of the superstar's exciting career and turbulent romantic life – all told through the friendship and loyalty of her four devoted friends.
Music City, U.S.A. ~ It's Ev’ry Country Gal’s Hollywood is adapted for the stage by the internationally recognized expert on Patsy Cline, Ellis Nassour, author of Honky Tonk Angel: The Intimate Story of Patsy Cline (St. Martin's Press; Updated edition, Chicago Review Press – also available as an audio book); and the contributor of the source material for the international hit revue, Always, Patsy Cline*.
Equipped with little more than raw ambition (and a monumental talent), Patsy struggles to make a name for herself in a "good ole boy" business that often left its women bruised and bitter. Her tempestuous marriage to one of those good ole boys forms the heart of the story, an "on again/off again" relationship as passionate as it was reckless. Along the way, in happy and dark times, Patsy turned to friends, who happened to be some of the brightest starts of country and rock ‘n roll. They included Minnie Pearl, a sort of mentor to the ladies, Dottie West, Loretta Lynn, and Brenda Lee.
The musical showcases some of Patsy Cline’s most treasured classic hits: “Walkin’ After Midnight,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Crazy,” “She’s Got You,” and “Faded Love”, and the first hits of Dottie West, Loretta Lynn, and Brenda Lee – along with the show-stopping antics of memorable Grand Ole Opry comic star Minnie Pearl. Songs are by Hank Cochran, Harland Howard, Willie Nelson, Bob Wills, and Dottie West.
In addition there is an original score by George Leonard (music) and Nassour (lyrics) that follows the arc of Patsy’s career from a yodeling cowgirl to hit-making pop star.
Performance dates and more information will follow in June, 2022. |