Always ... Patsy Cline

What is a legend, and why? Always ... Patsy Cline has been one of the most produced musicals in America and has also been enjoyed internationally by audiences in Canada, the UK and Australia. This new production directed by Denny Lawrence is completing an Australia-wide tour. The warmth of the polished production, starring Courtney Conway as Patsy Cline and Mandi Lodge as Louise Seger is immediate and all encompassing, but the secret must be the enduring music of Patsy Cline.

As one who grew up listening to Patsy Cline on the radio in the late 50s early 60s, I can vouch for the ability of country music singer Courtney Conway, who captured the voice and tone of Cline beautifully. Audience members all had a connection, a bond to the memories of that era of music, which was satisfied by the show. How else can you explain the devotion to a canon of music, fifty-or-so years after the death of the person who sang it? With twenty seven songs, there was a favourite for everyone (mine was Walking After Midnight) and most were pleased to sing along.

Always...Patsy Cline is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically at age 30 in a plane crash in 1963. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s endearing friendship with Houston fan Louise Seger, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in l961 and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death.

Courtney Conway was WOW! An angel to look at, a dream to listen to. The simple yet gorgeous costumes captured the look and feel of the era. I especially loved the look of the green taffeta – my mother had an almost identical dress in the late 50s!

Mandi Lodge has charisma to burn, keeping the show moving as the other major character, complete with lovely backing vocals.  Musical Director Ross Sermons as guitarist and drummer Tommy Harrison made up the The Bobacious Bobcats Band, Patsy Cline’s stage band. Delightful, heart-warming – pure entertainment!

Merlene Abbott