By Laurie DuPaul

Special to the Post

Walking into the Arundel Barn Playhouse, located off Route 1 in Arundel, the whole stage has a new appearance for the production of Always…Patsy Cline.  To the left of the stage, the design team, has amazingly constructed a kitchen, complete with built-in cabinets, stove and a refrigerator.  

The musicians dressed in western attire and directed by Nolan Bonvouloir, are set in the background of center stage at the Grand Ole Opry.  Musicians include two Kennebunk High School students, Michael Sampson on drums and John Lyden, bassist;  two guitarists, Chris Quint, recommended by Tune Town in Wells and Tony Michaud, music teacher from Kennebunk Elementary School begin the evening with Honky Tonk Merry Go Round, a musical number written by Frank Simon and Stan Gardner.  

Patsy Cline born Virginia Patterson Hensley in 1932, was a country music singer who was the first female solo artist to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.  In this production, Patsy Cline (Laura Cook) steps onto the stage with a red cowgirl dress accented with white fringe and white cowboy boots.  Memories come alive as Cook sings favorite numbers like Back in Baby’s Arms, Your Cheatin’ Heart, San Antonio Rose, She’s Got You, and many more.  Each number brings a smile as song after song takes you back to the 1960’s and Patsy Cline singing each number with feelings and class.  

Louise Seger  captures the audience by having you feel like you are sitting at the kitchen table and sharing a cup of coffee while she tells about the special friendship she and Patsy shared.  

Costume Designer Sarah Brekke sets the tone with cowboy attire for the musicians, Grand Ole Opry outfits for Patsy, and country outfits for Louise.  

As the evening comes to a close, it is a reminder that the Arundel Barn Playhouse is winding down the season.  If you have been contemplating all summer  about taking in a show, then don’t miss Always…Patsy Cline.  A cast of two, Cline and Seger provide an evening of sweet memories with song, humor and dancing.  Both Cline and Seger engage the audience by having them clap and sing.  It is an evening not to miss. 

 The show runs through, Saturday August 30. Performances are Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8 p.m., with Wednesday matinees at 2 p.m. and one Friday matinee on August 29 and one Sunday 8 p.m. performance on August 24. Ticket prices range from $24 to $35.  For prepaid reservations and information, call 985-5552.