07/21/2024
REMEMBERING PATSY CLINE'S GREAT MUSIC
Bannerman Castle Trust’s Production
"Always… Patsy Cline"
Some words from Laurie A. Clark - Beacon, NY
I was lucky enough to be subjected to a variety of music growing up and as a singer I’ve been influenced by many “girl” singers throughout recorded history. For me, one voice that always stood out whenever I’d hear it on the radio or on my dad’s makeshift stereo system, was the incredible voice of Patsy Cline. Last Thursday I got lucky again, when I was invited to attend a rehearsal of the BCT’s upcoming stage production of Always…Patsy Cline. This remarkable musical stage play by playwright Ted Swindley, tells the story of the ever-popular early 1960’s singer Patsy Cline and a special friend she found while on tour in Texas.
I had seen this play before, as well as several films, concerts and productions featuring various talented people starring as Patsy, but this interpretation STANDS OUT! Actress and musician Jessica Welch may as well be Patsy reincarnated as she assumes the role effortlessly and beautifully capturing every little nuance and inflection that Patsy presented in her performances. Amazingly, Jessica has Patsy’s range, stage presence and competence and even a little something “extra” that is hard to define, making her totally convincing in the role and mesmerizing to watch.
The challenging role of Patsy’s biggest fan and newfound friend Louise Seger is a difficult one and actress Emily Clare Zempel manages to pull it off masterfully by capturing Louise’s enthusiasm and sincerity without being over the top. The two actresses have an incredible chemistry that rings true and that you don’t always see in live theater performances. This special friendship feels real and honest in a way that many of us can relate to, after finding that one true friend who surpasses even the bond of a family member. The character of Louise recognizes the extraordinary talent of another young woman her age and wants nothing else more than to share Patsy with the world. Louise feels every word that Patsy is singing, as she herself relates to the lyrical content of the songs and sees parallels that correspond to Patsy’s life as well.
Musical Director Tom McCoy leads an extraordinary band for this show featuring many of Patsy Cline’s greatest hits and the musicianship in this production will not disappoint and is spot on! I’m always amazed to see the amount of talented people that now call the Hudson Valley home, and realize the growing potential of musical theater in our area. This production features some of our area’s finest performers and seeing the show on a beautiful island in the Hudson River is an additional bonus. Writer Ted Swindley, Director & Set Designer Neil Caplan and Musical Director Tom McCoy have put together something remarkable and to me, rivals shows that I’ve seen both on and off-Broadway.
Always…Patsy Cline had me laughing and in tears and I encourage people not to miss this extraordinary production that brings Patsy Cline and the early 1960’s back to life! Bring your significant other, bring your family, or perhaps bring your best friend. My best friend of 40 years who is also a singer, will be coming with me and I can’t wait to share this unforgettable evening with her! If you love Patsy, come and see her and her friend Louise on Bannerman Island for a theatrical experience you certainly will never forget!
Go to: https://bannermancastle.org/tours-events/always-patsy-cline/