Do you remember Elvis? Roy Orbison? Patsy Cline? Did you ever see them in concert?
Well, you can now!
The unique show, known as the Louisiana Hayride, based on the historical radio show where these artists (and many more) performed, is returning to The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre Saturday, Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
“You will have the opportunity to attend a magical evening of entertainment where you’ll believe you really are at a concert featuring these superstars, enjoying their wonderful music from years gone by,” said show creator Gil Risling.
The talented singers and musicians of the Louisiana Hayride Show recreate these iconic artists and you’ll see and hear Elvis sing ‘That’s Alright Mama’, the song he sang the first time he was on the Louisiana Hayride when he was 19 years old.
“And Elvis doesn’t stop there. He’ll be sure to sing a few other huge hits. Roy Orbison will show up with ‘Crying’ and ‘Pretty Woman’ and, always a favorite, Patsy Cline will be there as well singing her hits. Another audience favorite is Loretta Lynn singing her signature song ‘Coalminer’s Daughter’ and her little sister, Crystal Gayle will also be there singing a couple of her chart toppers. Classic country doesn’t get any more pure than Lefty Frizzell and you’ll be treated to his music as well.
In addition to these incredible tributes, you’ll hear songs by Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins, Roger Miller, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Buck Owens and more.
Many of these iconic artists have had a great influence on current singers and to add even more variety to the show Risling promises you will be entertained by “Shania Twain” as she makes the connection between “old” and “new” country music.
The Louisiana Hayride, complete with studio stage set, fabulous tribute artists and live band will take you back in time to when songs were meaningful, the words were understood and the sound was pleasant.
Show creators, Lori and Gil Risling, have been touring this successful production, now in its ninth year, across western Canada to rave reviews. Risling says: “The music in this show will bring back memories from a bygone era. This is music the audience remembers, either first hand, or, in many cases, it’s music they remember their parents or grandparents playing. Music that’s no longer easily accessible.”
Interspersed throughout the show will be fascinating bits of trivia about the artists the group portrays. That, Lori Risling says, “has long been an audience favourite. They love hearing the history. A lot of it is quite surprising to them.”
The cast includes Risling on electric and acoustic guitar, and vocals when in character as Roy Orbison. Andrea Anderson portrays Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Crystal Gayle. And watch for her newest character, Shania Twain.
William Brookfield is heard on double keyboard, guitar and vocals. Watch for his stellar recreation of songs by Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Tennessee Ernie Ford — quite a stretch.
Derek Pulliam adds stand-up bass, guitar and authentic vocals when he treats the audience to songs by classic country legends such as Lefty Frizzell and Bobby Bare.
Elvis tribute artist Vic De Sousa adds another dimension to the Louisiana Hayride Show as he portrays “The King”.
“The cast and crew of the Louisiana Hayride is dedicated to bringing authentic music to you,” said Risling. “The songs you hear will be true to the originals.”
Tickets are $48 each. Get them at the Cowichan Ticket Centre in person or by calling 250-748-7529 or online at www.cowichanpac.ca.
