Patsy Cline is one of the most legendary voices, not just in country music, but music over all. Even if you are not a fan of country or classic genres, you instantly know songs like Crazy and Fall To Pieces. This original legend, who died on March 5, 1963 in an airplane crash, is brought to life in Stage West’s 152nd production, running until September 9th.
Part musical revue, part sketch comedy, A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline was created by Dean Regan in Vancouver has been produced throughout North America, and is approved by Cline’s estate. Cline is portrayed by actress Devra Straker, previously seen in Jesus Christ Superstar and The Rocky Horror Show. While not a dead-on impression, Straker’s version of Cline is close enough to give you chills. She is joined by fellow Stage West alums Aaron Walpole (Canadian Explosion), as DJ Little Big Man, and Paula Macneill (Canadian Explosion, Rocky Horror Show) and Keith White (California Dreaming 1 & 2) as backup singers. They are ably backed up by a live band, lead by Musical Director Brent Rock.
The show is based in a radio station where DJ Little Big Man is playing a tribute night to Cline. He speaks small anecdotes about songs and performances throughout Cline’s career, which Straker then comes out to perform. Interspersed are amusing sketch bits, such as live “radio commercials” that were reminiscent of the era for products like Mr. Clean. These bits are some much appreciated, energetic comedic relief considering that much of Cline’s music is soft and slow.
While the show features great performances, its weaknesses lie in the script. It doesn’t really tell the story of Cline’s life, instead focusing solely on the music. Cline sung frequently of sorrow and heartbreak, and her own comes through clearly in her voice on recordings, however the reason for her heartbreak isn’t touched on. Cline’s second husband Charlie Dick was an abusive alcoholic, even as much as they loved each other. The songs and story would have been that much more compelling if we actually knew the stories behind them, as opposed to “I remember when Patsy played this song in Nashville.”
As always, Stage West presents a quality buffet alongside their shows. The barbeque pork ribs with honey hoisen sauce are some of the best ribs I have ever had; the herb cheese medallion with pesto cream sauce was delicious, and the blackened haddock loin with orange marmalade glaze & buttered corn was an absolute treat. We were thoroughly stuffed by the time they cleared the buffet, barely having room for dessert... not that it slowed us down!
A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline is going to mostly appeal to the singer’s fans. Even as someone who isn’t, enough of her songs are familiar to find the show enjoyable. But if you are, you simply must see this show as Straker captures her essence, making for a live Patsy Cline experience!
A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline
Stage West Theatre Restaurants
Running until September 9th, 2007
(403) 244-6642
www.stagewestcalgary.com
