Traverse City Record-Eagle

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  • Special to the Record-Eagle "Honky Tonk Angels" is at the Dennos Museum Center Saturday, March 24.

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March 16, 2012

'Honky Tonk' to songs you already know

By Kendall Spratt Special to the Record-Eagle

TRAVERSE CITY — You don’t have to be country at heart to like “Honky Tonk Angels,” although it sure won’t hurt.

The musical will be at the Dennos Museum Center at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 24.

Musicals aren’t typical fare at the Dennos but Gene Jenneman, museum director, thought that it was “worth exploring.” He’s hoping the program will appeal to a broader audience.

“Honky Tonk Angels” is produced by Springer Theatricals, the national touring unit of the Springer Opera House and the State Theatre of Georgia.The show has been described by as a funny and tender Valentine to the female singers in the country music pantheon.

The musical tells the story of three aspiring singers who leave their work, lives and families and head for Nashville to pursue a career in music.

“(It’s) a unique musical theater entertainment,” says Paul R. Pierce, producer and director. “It explores the unbridled desire that drives a poor young farm girl, a weary housewife or a stressed-out secretary to drop everything and roll the dice in the world’s most competitive and brutal industry — all for the love of music.”

Jenneman said the program was recommended by  Bryan Jao at Michigan State University’s Wharton Center.

Spring break weekend might be a challenge, Jenneman said, but it was best opportunity to bring the play to Michigan.

The musical includes the songs “Stand by Your Man,” “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Harper Valley PTA,” “Ode to Billie Joe” and “9 to 5.”

“I believe that even if you aren’t a big fan of country music you will still find something that you will enjoy music-wise,” Jenneman said.

Tickets are $25 in advance, $28 at the door or $22 for museum members, plus fees. Call 995-1553 or go to www.dennosmuseum.org

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