In the heart of Rappahannock County, the spirit of community theater is alive and thriving, as revealed in a recent episode of "The Valley Today" hosted by Janet Michael. The episode shines a spotlight on the upcoming production of "Always... Patsy Cline" by the RAAC Community Theater, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the passion, dedication, and camaraderie that fuel local arts.
Janet welcomes director Patty Hardee, who also serves as the artistic director for the Rappahannock Association for Arts and Community (RAAC), alongside cast members Jami Davis (Patsy Cline) and Sarah Nutt (Louise Seger). The conversation opens with a deep dive into the history and mission of RAAC, an organization that has been nurturing the arts in the region for over four decades. Patty shares how RAAC's programming extends far beyond theater, encompassing art tours, concerts, film screenings, children's programs, and even ephemeral art installations that celebrate creativity in all its fleeting forms.
The focus then shifts to the production itself. "Always... Patsy Cline" is more than a musical tribute; it's a heartfelt story of friendship between the legendary singer and her devoted fan, Louise. Patty explains the unique structure of the play, which weaves together Patsy's iconic songs with Louise's memories, all set against the backdrop of a live band composed of talented community members, including local students. The cast discusses the challenges and joys of their roles—Jami relishes the opportunity to channel Patsy's vocal style and stage presence, while Sarah delights in the exuberance and comedic energy of Louise, a character who allows her to "turn herself up to 100."
The conversation also explores the realities of community theater: the intimacy of performing in a small venue, the legal hurdles of securing rights to a beloved show, and the importance of audience engagement. Both Jami and Sarah reflect on the thrill of live performance, the unpredictability of audience reactions, and the sense of connection that only comes from sharing a story in real time. Patty emphasizes the value of local support, noting that productions like this are possible thanks to the dedication of volunteers, the enthusiasm of audiences, and the generosity of the community.
As the conversation wraps up, listeners are invited to experience the magic for themselves. "Always... Patsy Cline" opens at the Little Washington Theater, promising an evening of music, laughter, and heartfelt storytelling. With ticket information and showtimes shared, the conversation serves as both an invitation and a celebration—a testament to the enduring power of the arts to bring people together, inspire creativity, and honor the legacies of those who came before.
