by Amber C. Nore
Always… Pasty Cline, TADA Theatre, Thursday, Aril, 11, 2024
Dear Theatre Goer,
I had the joy of attending the opening night performance of Always… Patsy Cline at TADA Theatre. This charming show, written and created by Ted Swindley, tells the real life story of how Louise Seger from Houston, TX befriends Patsy Cline, one of the most beloved singers in country music.
Guest actress Kyttra Burge comes to Lincoln from Virginia to play the role of Patsy Cline. Delivering a studied performance, Burge is mesmerizing in the leading role. She offers a pitch perfect vocal tribute to Cline through her singing, complete with beautiful hair, makeup and costuming. I enjoyed her facial expressions and movements…. every detail has been considered.
Actress Cris Rook portrays Patsy’s real-life friend Louise Seger in a thoroughly entertaining, comedic and heartwarming performance. For nearly two hours, Rook has most of the lines of the show and never misses a beat or loses energy. This is a total dedication to accent, timing and delivery. She really wows!!
The first act sets up the story of how quirky Louise Seger of Houston, TX requests Patsy Cline on the radio every single day, and is ecstatic to learn that she will be coming to town for a concert. The second act shows how their meeting blossoms into a dear friendship as pen pals. All of my favorite songs were in the show, including “Walkin’ After Midnight” “Crazy” and “I Fall to Pieces.”
Everyone in the audience was laughing, clapping and singing along. I loved leaving the theater and hearing the other patrons commenting “That was a marvelous time” and “what a well done show.”
We are so truly lucky to have this gem of a theatre in Lincoln!
Jenna Williamson created a beautiful set that takes us from stage to home to radio station. Shelly Self and the costuming team have created gorgeous looks for each character, my favorite being a sparkly dress that shines when Patsy sings. The entire technical team came together to create a wonderful experience.
With expert direction from Robert D. Rook, this show seamlessly transitions from scene to scene. The chemistry between Burge and Cris Rook is what makes the heartbeat of the show. In the time of Instagram and texting, it is easy to forget how important having a pen-pal is and how it creates friendships and makes them stronger.
Treat yourself to an entertaining show with a lot of heart! Don’t miss these world class performances!
Always,
Amber C. Nore
Always…Patsy Cline is directed by Robert D. Rook, with musical direction by Cris Rook, production managed by William Phillips, accompaniment by William Maltas, scenic design by Jenna Williamson, technical direction by Kevin Welch, costume coordination by Shelly Self and lighting design by Robert D. Rook. It is produced by TADA Productions, Inc. and sponsored by The Nebraska Lottery and The Mill.
If you go: Always…Patsy Cline is on stage at The TADA Theatre at 701 P Street, in Lincoln, Nebraska’s Historic Haymarket District, April 11-28, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2:00 pm. Tickets can be reserved and more information can be found at www.tadatheatre.info.
Amber C. Nore is a singer/actress/writer who has performed locally with Angels Theatre Company, TADA, Pinewood Bowl and Lincoln Community Playhouse and nationally with Spokane Repertory Theatre and Rogue Players. She sings in the band Andy Pappas & Jukebox Gyro, the debut album “Inside Voices” is available on iTunes and Spotify. Her favorite role has been Stage Mom to her daughter, Chloe and Foster Mom to niece, Mars. Amber is the Director of Community Engagement for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
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