The tech staff has been right on top of things all summer and ALWAYS...PATSY CLINE was another feather in their cap...or in this case maybe “wig” would be a better word. The set was designed by Mark DeLancey and his use of multiple layers gave the audience the feel of the honky tonk stages plus giving the actors opportunities to move. Roejendra Adams brought the Texas Country-Western life-style of the 1960’s to Millbrook in the costumes. She has shown a true appreciation of period and mood over this season. Costuming is my personal interest in theatre and Ms. Adams has earned my respect and envy. Jerrilyn Lanier was given credit for the wigs in the show. Whoever found the one worn by Sarah Cue (as Louise) deserves a special nod of thanks.
Music Director Bill Brown led a pit orchestra that could have held the audience on its own. The nice thing was that they were on set throughout the show so we could see who was playing what. And, never did they drown out the singing. I always appreciate that.
Courtney Simmons channeled Patsy Cline as well as I have seen the part played. Her voice is powerful, true, emotional, and with an incredible range. Credit has to go to a vocal coach somewhere for Ms. Simmons’ tremendous stamina. A big complement is the fact that I did not recognize the actress from an earlier show. I remember saying after Sound of Music that I wish the actress who played Elsa could have had more of a chance to sing. Now I want to see, and hear, Courtney in something completely different. She has a voice that should be able to do it all.
Sarah Michelle Cue took charge of the stage as Patsy’s biggest fan Louise Seger. When critics talk about an actor “tearing up a stage”, they could use this performance as an example. Her acting was as big as her hair. Her connection with the audience as well as her comic timing showed great professionalism. This is another actor to watch for on People’s cover.
The show’s director, Johanna Pinzler, had played the part of Patsy Cline several years ago at Millbrook. This may be why this performance showed a great sense of the talent and person who was Patsy Cline.
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| photo courtesy of Millbrook Playhouse |
August the 2nd . The show was to run until August the 11th, but due to demand it has been extended for another week. It was announced that seven of the nine shows have already sold out, so I wish you luck in getting tickets. I have lost count of how many times I have seen this hilarious show and am excited to see it again. In fact, I have plans to go twice to see this version. Hope to see you at one of them. To see times and dates of extended performances, please visit the
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