MEET THE CAST: “Honky Tonk Angels” opens 75th season of Tryon Little Theater

Published 11:44 am Tuesday, September 5, 2023

TRYON—Seventy-five years is a long time to enthrall audiences, and over the years Tryon Little Theater has provided the community with a broad range of comedies, dramas and musicals — as well as the beloved Tryon Summer Youth Theater productions.

On September 28, at the Tryon Fine Arts Center, Tryon Little Theater’s production of “Honky Tonk Angels” officially opens its 75th anniversary season. There are only three performers (and an amazing bunch of musicians), but the three ladies of “Honky Tonk Angels” have to carry an entire show of 30 country and gospel songs, dancing and dialogue.

Director Dan Harvey is very excited about his cast.  

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“I was fortunate enough to find three excellent, seasoned actors with strong vocal and acting talents,” he says. “I have had the pleasure of working with all of them over the years and am extremely confident and excited about how they will bring this show to life for our audiences.”

Lori Lee, who plays Angela, is from Spartanburg and is well-known in North and

South Carolina as a talented singer and actor with impeccable comedic timing. She will sing songs such as “Harper Valley PTA,” “Barroom Habits” and “Don’t Come

Home a Drinkin’” in order to show off her comedic style. She will also show her softer side when she sings songs such as “Almost Persuaded” and “Amazing Grace.”

 

Leslie Hendon, who plays Sue Ellen, is from Pauline, SC, and is a newcomer to the TLT stage; but she has been acting, singing and dancing most of her life. She hasperformed in many productions, and she is known for her strong belting voice, her excellent dancing, as well as her strong acting. She will perform several of the “upbeat” songs in the show such as “9 to 5,” “These Boots Are Made For Walking,” and “Rocky Top,” as well as others. Sue Ellen transforms from a “self-absorbed” character to the kind, caring country girl that she really is at heart.

 

Maggie Carter, who portrays Darlene, is well-known on the TLT stage and has grown into an excellent singer, actor and dancer. She has performed in several shows in lead and supportive roles. Her genuine acting style will be evident as she sings ballads such as “Calling All Angels,” “Ode to Billy Joe” and “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” She also transforms from a shy, naive young girl to a strong woman who finds her place in the world — and she’s learned to clog very well for the show too!

Pam McNeil is Musical Director for “Honky Tonk Angels,” and she’s played for TLT’s musicals too many years to count!  

There are only four performances (September 28 – October 1) so make sure you get your tickets early. Ticket prices are $25 and $12, and are available online at www.tltinfo.org, or by calling 828-859-2466.

 

Submitted by Monica Jones