Kayenta hosts performances of “Hank Williams: Lost Highway”
By Merrie Campbell-Lee
An ensemble cast will perform “Hank Williams: Lost Highway” at The Center for the Arts at Kayenta May 8, 9, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m. with an additional performance May 11 at 2 p.m.
This moving musical biography will transport audiences back in time to the rich and utterly fascinating world of country music legend Hank Williams. With the help of teachers and mentors, the lonesome drifter from Alabama rose from poverty and pain to become one of the most influential American singer/songwriters of the 20th Century.
The play’s nine cast members showcase the surprising depth of talent that flourishes in our own region. Chris Whiteside, who stars as Hank Williams, will be joined onstage by actors and musicians Megan Baker (Audrey Williams), Alan Stromberg (“Burrhead” Jimmy), Jane Williams (Mama Lilly), Dean Jones (Fred “Pap” Rose), Ronny Williams (Rufus “Tee Tot” Payne), Spencer Wilde (Hoss), Ginger Nelson (Waitress), and Jason Stout (“Loudmouth” Leon). Richard Bugg, founder of the 17-years-strong Neil Simon Festival, directs this all-star ensemble.
As Williams’ raw-edged story plays out, you’ll hear some of his greatest hits along with powerful spirituals; the earliest published rock-n- roll song, “Move it On Over”; and fiery gospel songs like “Thank God,” “(When I Get to Glory) I’m Gonna Sing, Sing, Sing,” and “I Saw the Light!”
Whiteside, who starred in the play during the 2016 Neil Simon Festival, is now a huge fan.
“His story, long confused by legend and lie, will be told as I believe he would have had it told,” Whiteside said.
Don’t miss the chance to see “Hank Williams: Lost Highway.” Tickets are $30 and $10 for students with valid ID and can be purchased through kayentaarts.com. The Center for the Arts at Kayenta is located at 881 Coyote Gulch Ct. in Ivins.
Kayenta Arts Foundation’s is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop and create an environment where diverse artistic endeavors can flourish. The Center for the Arts at Kayenta is the actual place where people in the greater southern Utah area come to learn, express, appreciate and celebrate art in all forms.
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