In March 2010, a small group of local performers presented the Louisiana Hayride on the stage at Shuswap Theatre for the first time.
Anxiety was high over whether they’d sell enough tickets for two booked shows.
“Well, both nights sold out and a third night was added, which also sold out,” says writer and producer Lori Risling. “Thanks to the tremendous support of Salmon Arm and area, the Louisiana Hayride show continues to sell tickets.”
There are now four versions show, with the same, but characters and songs that have changed from show to show.
The “Greatest Moments” show is just what the name implies, says Risling.
“We’ve taken the very best moments from all shows and combined them into one,” she says. “This is the very first time the tribute artists in this production have all performed in the same show.”
The audience will see Hank Williams, Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn and Patsy Cline, along with Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley.
Back by popular demand are the “Cowboys,” who have been practising their fireside songs.
In between the tribute artists, the show is filled with the music of artists such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins and Ray Price.
Following his recent international win in Memphis, Tenn., Adam Fitzpatrick is bringing Elvis back to the building – both as the performer of the 1950s and in the 1968 Comeback Special.
Ranked the No. 2 Elvis tribute artist in the world, Fitzpatrick is committed to touring with the show as part of the Hayride family.
“As a special treat to those attending the Salmon Arm show, Patrick Ryley will reprise his role as Hank Williams,” says Risling.
“A cast member since the beginning of the Louisiana Hayride, Patrick has been unable to tour over the last year due to work commitments.
Also back on the ride are Andrea Anderson, a crowd favorite, who will again appear as Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn, and Gil Risling on guitar, bass guitar, banjo and portraying Willie Nelson and Roy Orbison. William Brookfield plays a phenomenal keyboard, acoustic guitar and also sings, and Mike Melnichuk plays stand-up bass, electric guitar and also sings.
Tickets for The Greatest Moments of the Louisiana Hayride, at $35, are available at Touch A Texas and Wearabouts.
