The current offering at Shadowland Stages is a story of music, of friendship and ultimately of love between Louise Seger and country legend Patsy Cline. 

“Always … Patsy Cline” is a true story, gleaned from an incident described in Cline’s biography “Honky Tonk Angel.” Created and originally directed by Ted Swindley, it tells of her encounter in 1961 with Louise Seger, a devoted fan who arrived early at The Esquire Ballroom in Houston for Cline’s performance there. Seger takes an obviously nervous Cline under her wing and the two become allies and friends. 

Shadowland’s presentation is directed by Michael La Fleur, whose 40+ year stage career includes being part of the creative team for Celine Dion’s Las Vegas spectacular, creating for the Walt Disney Company, Six Flags and Universal Studios. He currently has productions running around the world. La Fleur’s gathering of professionals in Ellenville creates a show that is nothing short of spectacular. 

Cori Cable Kidder is reprising her seventh production of “Always …” having discovered Patsy Cline in 2009 when she was handed the sheet music to “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” In addition to the musical, Kidder has performed several tribute concerts to the country music icon. Her joyous enthusiasm for Cline’s music is evident in her portrayal, and is effortlessly transmitted to the audience, which she engages from the very beginning. Her execution is soft and warm and delightful.

Kidder performs 32 songs during the show including the well-known “I Fall to Pieces,” “Walkin’ After Midnight,” “She’s Got You,” and “Crazy.”

Accompanying Cline on this journey is Alaina Beauloye as Louise Seger.  Beauloye’s portrayal is full of energy, vitality and warmth. Her affection for Cline is sincere and tender, and her exuberance for life makes you want to be friends with her, too. She dances, she sings, she sways, she sashays, she bubbles with enthusiasm. 

Set Designer and Technical Director Peter Johnson has created a beautiful rustic set with lots of wood and several performance levels. Stage right is Louise’s kitchen, where she sets up the story, and later visits with Cline. Stage left is the Esquire Ballroom bar, and upstage is the concert area, where five musicians are set up to accompany Kidder, and interact with both actresses. Bravo to conductor/pianist Robert Felstein, bassist David Winograd, guitarist Greg Dinger, drummer Larry Balestra and violinist Max Rainwater. Their talent is manifested; their interplay and chemistry are fun to watch. 

Lighting by Jeremy Johnson, sound by Jeff Knapp, and wig design by Cindy Johnson are all superlative. And special mention must be made about the gorgeous costumes designed by Christina English. 

“Always … Patsy Cline” will be performed on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. through August 6 at Shadowland Stages in Ellenville. Call the box office for tickets at 845-647-5511. 

This show has everything you could ask for in a musical – it’s funny, it’s poignant, it’s real, it’s country, it’s full of friendship and tenderness. It’s a tribute to a musical legend and a lady who loved her. You’ll love it, too.