Always… Patsy Cline is Back by Popular Demand at the Pollard
Kara Chapman as Patsy Cline in Always… Patsy Cline
One of the nation’s most produced musicals is back this summer at the Pollard Theatre. Always… Patsy Cline is the true story of one of America’s most treasured musical icons and celebrates the beauty of unlikely friendship. The Pollard is closing out their excellent 31st season with this popular show, running June 8th – 30th in Guthrie. The Pollard is welcoming back Kara Chapman and Jodi Nestander to reprise the roles of the legendary songstress Patsy and her pen-pal turned best friend Louise. This production, returning by popular demand after a sold-out run in 2015, is directed by Timothy Stewart. Stewart says “I believe audiences will come back, or for the first time, and enjoy the music of Patsy Cline and be thoroughly entertained.”
A dynamic cast and classic American tunes are in store for those new and returning Pollard patrons. Chapman and Nestander are joined by a talented creative team, to include Todd S. Malicoate as Music Director, Michael James on Scenic and Costume Design, Michael Long in Lighting Design, Timothy Stewart in a dual role in Property Design and Directing, and Jared Blount in Sound Design.
Kara Chapman (L) as Patsy and Jodi Nestander (R) as Louise in Always… Patsy Cline. Photos courtesy of The Pollard Theatre Company
Patsy Cline was only thirty years old when she suffered an untimely death in a plane crash in Tennessee in 1963. She was at the height of her popularity, and her fan-base, which included well known musicians and celebrities alike, mourned her passing. Much like Elvis, John Lennon, and many of the world’s great artists, her popularity only climbed with her death. Cline’s career spanned nearly twenty years while she lived, and today, 55 years after her death, she is still regarded as one of the most successful and influential vocalists in American history.
Behind the scenes of record charts, famous photographs and the glamour of celebrity life, there was a die-hard fan who became a life-long friend to Cline. This musical is a celebration of their friendship. Based on the real letters they sent back and forth to each other, audiences will see a side of Patsy Cline that much of the world never knew.
Many of Cline’s most infamous songs are also featured in the show. Patrons can look forward to hearing Walkin’ After Midnight, Crazy, Sweet Dreams and more, as they were originally intended- live and in person. The musical numbers will be an added treat to the production.
Patsy Cline’s life and music is tainted by the tragedy that was her early death. Even with the iconic legacy she left, we simply cannot view one without the other. The beauty of this show is that it remains true to that detail. Life, death, friendship, and yes, music, are all important aspects of this human condition, and deserve a narrative all on their own.
Always… Patsy Cline runs June 8th through 30th at the Pollard Theatre. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Thursdays June 21st and 28th at 8:00 pm and Sundays June 17th and 24th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available online at www.thepollard.org, by phone at 405-282-2800, or at the Pollard Box Office, 120 W. Harrison Ave, Guthrie, Oklahoma.