Gulf Coast Theatre Review: 'Always... Patsy Cline'

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

If you’re looking for a heartwarming, toe-tapping night at the theater filled with great music and genuine charm, "Always… Patsy Cline" is a show you’ll want to get on your calendar as it graces the stage of the Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers.

This production is, without a doubt, first-class entertainment, the kind that makes you smile, laugh, and maybe even feel a little nostalgic on the way home.

At the center of it all is actress Katelyn Crall, who recently appeared on the national tour of "Hadestown." Crall doesn’t just sing Patsy Cline’s songs; she becomes her. From Cline’s unmistakable vibrato to her emotional honesty and down-to-earth charisma, Crall captures the music legend in a way that makes her feel less like an icon and more like an old friend you’re thrilled to spend time with.

If you’re not familiar with the show, "Always… Patsy Cline" tells the story of Cline through her brief but meaningful friendship with devoted fan Louise Seger, played brilliantly by Carole Messina. Messina is an absolute delight as the brassy, big-hearted narrator of the show, delivering laughs with ease and warmth. There’s something wonderfully familiar about her performance. At times, she feels like she’s channeling Polly Holliday’s iconic “Flo” from "Alice." The audience falls in love with her almost instantly and she's not afraid to address and even flirt a little.

Structurally, the show feels more like a Patsy Cline concert pretending to be a play and that’s not a complaint. The production strikes a nice balance between storytelling and musical performance, allowing the songs to take center stage while still offering plenty of heart. Crall’s rich, signature voice beautifully captures Cline’s sophisticated pop style blended with heartfelt country, and the numerous costume changes are a fun and appreciated bonus.

The band deserves its own round of applause. Mark Baczynski on fiddle and guitar, Ryan Crum on bass, Vince Federicion on steel guitar, Rob Law on drums, and Steven Zumbrun on piano truly brings the 1950s to life. Together, they create the perfect musical backdrop for classics like “Back in Baby’s Arms,” “Stupid Cupid,” and “Crazy,” just to name a few.

Even if you’re not already familiar with Patsy Cline, this show is a wonderful introduction. It’s easy to see why generations of fans fell in love with her before her untimely death. And if you are a fan, this production feels like a loving tribute that gets it right.

Hats off to director Jason Parrish for putting his name on such a fun, engaging, and crowd-pleasing show.

"Always… Patsy Cline" runs through Jan. 25. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 239-332-4488.

DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.