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UPDATE: Last week, when this preview was first published, Chaffin’s had announced a Back to School BOGO special, unfortunately a power outage in the area prevented that from taking place. Just this morning—via email blast to patrons and supporters—another Buy One Get One Special was announced for their 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 16 performance. The first 30 patrons to call Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre’s reservation line (listed above) and mention the PROMO CODE: THIRTY can take advantage of this one-night-only BOGO Special for dinner and the show.
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Back in February, following a successful run of Disney’s Freaky Friday, Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre temporarily closed up shop of some much-needed renovations to the half-century old facility. Just last weekend, the wait was over as Chaffin’s reopened to continue their 52nd Season with a re-staging of last year’s hugely popular production of Sister Act: The Musical. “We wanted to revive the show because people loved it so last year, and because we were sold out, some missed it,” said Chaffin’s Artistic Director, Martha Wilkinson. “It’s a great show to reopen with after renovations because the show is all about redevelopment, change, growth and love,” she continued.
Back in the habit for Chaffin’s rechristening is Meggan Utech as Deloris Van Cartier, the night club singer, who, after ratting out her gangster boyfriend for popping a cap in a street thug, is forced to go into witness protection as a nun.
Wilkinson also returns to her role as the no-nonsense Mother Superior who’s constantly butting heads with her new undercover charge. Longtime patrons of Chaffin’s no doubt recognize Wilkinson, who’s been a venerable part of The Barn family for three decades. In addition to being Chaffin’s Artistic Director, and co-starring as Mother Superior, Wilkinson is also at the helm of this production of Sister Act as the show’s director. Everett Tarlton is the show’s choreographer and returning once again as musical director for Sister Act is Kelsi Fulton.
Among those returning to the flock on-stage are: Devin Bowles as Curtis, Deloris’ aforementioned murderous beau, Gerold Oliver & Curtis Reed as Curtis’ bumbling henchmen, TJ and Joey, Vicki White as Sister Mary Lazarus, Jenny Norris as Michelle, David Arnold as the Monsignor and Braden Wahl as Ernie.
Of this iteration of Sister Act, Wilkinson exclaimed, “We’re having a blast!.” As for additions to the fold, Wilkinson continued, “There are some new cast members who are rocking it. Maggie Richardson as Sister Mary Robert is off the chain. Fantastic voice and energy, and she’s adorable.”
Other additions to the cast include: Megan Roberts as Sister Mary Patrick, Hallie Long as Sister Mary Bernice, Ang Madaline-Johnson as Sister Mary Martin of Tours, Jenny Wallace as Sister Mary Teresa, Everett Tarlton as Pablo, David Ridley as Sweaty Eddie, Christina Candilora as Tina and ensemble member, Andrew Neal.
A true testament to Chaffin’s storied history with Nashville Theatre, during opening weekend of Sister Act, there were Sold Out performances, with several upcoming performances already selling out as well. Of the reinvigorated interest in Chaffin’s and their newly remodeled facility, Wilkinson said, “We’re so very excited to continue the legacy!”
With that enthusiasm, there’s no doubt Sister Act is divine proof that Chaffin’s is back in the habit. Sister Act continues its run with performances through Saturday, August 25. Each week features Thursday matinee performances at noon (doors open at 11 a.m. with a Box Lunch option), Thursday-Saturday evening performances are at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 for dinner service until 7 p.m.). There are also select Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. (doors at noon, with lunch service until 1:30 p.m. Thursday matinee tickets are $28.50 with Box Lunch ($20 Show Only). Evening and Sunday tickets are $62 ($37 Show Only and $18 for Children 12 and under ). Chaffin’s also offers a Small Plate a la carte menu option with separate pricing per item. Group Rates are also available. CLICK HERE or call the box office at 1-800-282-2276 for tickets or more details.
Following Sister Act’s run through August 25, Chaffin’s will present Disney’s Newsies onstage September 20-October 27. CLICK HERE for tickets, as this one’s sure to be another popular show for Chaffin’s. To keep up with the latest from Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre, find them online at ChaffinsBarnTheatre.com, ’like’ them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram and Twitter.
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