Shows - Branson Critic

This show is more like two tribute shows in one – especially since the two stars being saluted never really sang “together.” The show actually salutes the memory of these two superstars individually.

I noticed the audience was mostly of the older generation – and while it’s very likely younger people of today have only a faint (if any) knowledge of Hank Williams, Sr. or Patsy Cline, thankfully, numerous modern day country and pop singers have covered – and are still covering – their music extensively.

Since his death at the age of 29 in a 1953, Hank has been considered an icon of country music and one of the most influential singer-songwriter musicians of the 20th century. Stars such as Martina McBride recorded Hank’s “You Win Again” in 2005, as did Van Morrison in 2000. Punk band Me First and the Gimme Gimmes recorded “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” in 2006 as did Johnny Cash in 2002, John Waite in 1995, and Elvis Presley in 1973. Red Hot Chili Peppers sang “Why Don’t You Love Me” on their debut album in 1984. Linda Rondstadt and Emmy Lou Harris paired up in 1974 with “I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still in Love With You).” And the list of artists who have performed Hank Williams songs goes on and on - Norah Jones, The Melvins, Bob Dylan, Grateful Dead, Tanya Tucker, Ray Charles, Ricky Nelson, Jerry Lee Lewis, and of course his son, Hank Williams, Jr., just to name a few.

The same goes for hits made famous first by Patsy Cline. Since her death at the age of 30 in a 1963 plane crash, she is still considered an inspiration by many female vocalists. Kellie Pickler sang “Walkin’ After Midnight” on American Idol in 2006. It was also covered by Madeleine Peyroux, Bryan Adams and Garth Brooks. LeAnn Rimes sang “Crazy,” “She’s Got You,” and “Leavin’ On Your Mind” early in her career. “Sweet Dreams” was covered by Reba McEntire and Emmy Lou Harris in the 70’s.

Hank Williams, Sr., and Patsy Cline were certainly trendsetters – during their all-too-brief careers, Hank became the first “superstar” in country music, and Patsy came to be known as “America’s Sweetheart.” The knowledge of the remarkable music of these two legendary artists is most definitely what led me to the historic Owen’s Theatre in downtown Branson to see the Hank & Patsy “Together Again” Show.

The Owen’s Theatre is Branson’s first theater – an old stone building built in 1935 – so don’t expect anything too modern. Since it was built, it has stood as a movie house, a play house, an auction house, meeting hall, a church, and even a honky tonk. If the old, stone walls could talk, I’m sure they would have some pretty interesting and historic tales to tell about the many Branson events held there. I’ve read where legendary western stars such as Gene Autry and Roy Rogers played at the theatre, too.

Randy Steffen plays and sings the music of Hank Williams, Sr. He does an excellent job in performing the honky tonk style made famous by Hank and delivers a lot of humorous remarks in between songs.

I really enjoyed hearing Randy play and sing many of Hank’s number 1 hits like “Hey Good Lookin’,” “Lovesick Blues,” “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” “Cold, Cold Heart,” “Jambalaya,” “Kaw-Liga,” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart.” A real challenge for Randy, too, is the duet he does with Hank, Sr. while portraying Hank, Jr. - I’ll let you see this one for yourself!

Susan Hudson sang a great array of Patsy’s marvelous songs, including “I Fall To Pieces,” “Walkin’ After Midnight,” (which is my favorite Patsy song), “Faded Love,” and, of course, “Crazy,” as well as “Sweet Dreams.” She is able to convey every emotion intended in these wonderful love songs. Many may remember Susan from her performances on “Hee Haw” during the last few years the show was in syndication.

Photo stills of Hank and Patsy were shown onto a screen behind each performer and were interesting to watch, although I thought they were a little repetitive and I would have rather seen only pictures of the star they were saluting while each performer was singing.

Both stars meet and greet the audience during intermission and may even take a few requests.

There was a surprise guest to start the second half of the show that made for a nice change of pace – would you believe – Elvis Presley?

All in all, it was a great way to spend a couple hours in downtown Branson. So bring the kids or grandkids and give them a history lesson in good old country music in the historic Owen’s Theatre! They may even be surprised and recognize some of the great music – and maybe in return they can tell you something about the Me First and the Gimme Gimme’s!!!

Oh, and by the way, while you’re visiting the show, be sure to say “hello” to the very talented and amazing entertainer/impersonator, Dave Ehlert (wink)!

Sandi McKim

Editor, Branson Critic