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Step into History and Embrace the Drama of "Coal" at the Liz Spurlock Amphitheatre

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Mitch Vance as "The Narrator", 2021 Prepare to be transported to a time of gripping historical events and heartfelt emotions as "Coal" takes the stage once again at the Liz Spurlock Amphitheatre. Originally produced by The Aracoma Story Inc. in 2021, this powerful production marks a significant milestone for the theater company, as it was their first production following the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with audiences returning to entertainment venues and a renewed sense of normalcy, "Coal" is set to captivate theatergoers in a way it truly deserves.  Directed by the talented writer and member of The Aracoma Story Inc. Board of Directors, Joyce Robertson, this powerful production promises to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it. "Coal" is a mesmerizing two-act drama inspired by true events, delving into the lives of coal miners and their families during a pivotal era. This love story infused with historical fictio

Coal: A Journey of Struggles, Dreams, and Unyielding Hope

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Step into the poignant world of "Coal," where personal struggles, dreams, and the indomitable human spirit converge on the stage. In this blog post, we invite you to explore the emotional depths of the play, as it unveils the challenges faced by individuals during the King Coal era. Brace yourself for a profound journey that will shed light on the struggles, aspirations, and sacrifices of those caught in the grip of the King Coal era. Unveiling the Burdens "Coal" captures the essence of the era by highlighting the burdens carried by its characters. Audiences will resonate with John Mahone's illiteracy, a stark reminder of how vulnerable individuals were to exploitation during that time.  In a time when reading and education were gateways to empowerment, John finds himself at the mercy of powerful coal companies who take advantage of his inability to decipher their complex contracts and agreements.  As the story unfolds, we learn that John's brother-in-law, J

Familiar Faces Take On New Roles

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Krista Brown-Trogdon as Patsy Cline in 2006 The Aracoma Story, Inc. is proud to announce its upcoming production of "Always, Patsy Cline." The show has been a fan favorite in this part of the coalfields ever since Melissa R. Frye and Krista Brown-Trogdon brought it to life for the very first time in 2006. Krista portrayed the legendary songstress, Patsy Cline while Melissa led the audience on a tour of Patsy's life as fan-turned-friend, Louise Seger. Crowds sang along and danced in their seats-even during rain storms!  But they still wanted more! They got it four years later when Melissa and Krista reprised their roles for another season of Patsy in 2010. The friends shared a chemistry that simply created a magic on the stage.  They made sense together and to fans, their names became synonymous with the show.  

Always, Patsy Cline 2023

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 The Aracoma Story, Inc. presents Always Patsy Cline is a musical tribute to the country music singer of the same name. The show follows Patsy's successful career and her friendship with a Texas housewife named Louise Seger. Patsy's story is told through Louise's memories of the singer as she takes a journey down memory lane. As Louise reminisces, Patsy is brought to life through her classic songs such as "Walkin' After Midnight", "Crazy", "I Fall To Pieces" and more. We also explore Patty’s personal struggles and hardships, including her marriages and her untimely death. Always Patsy Cline paints a vivid portrait of an iconic woman and brings to life one of country music's most memorable voices. Chapmanville Regional High School, Chapmanville, WV Mar 10-12, 17-19, & 24-26, 2023 CAST & CREATIVES Production Creatives Melissa Frye-  Director Melissa is over the moon to once again be directing “Always…Patsy Cline” for The Aracoma S

Southern Fried Nuptials

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     Harlene Frye is going to marry her childhood sweetheart this weekend . . . assuming the typical Frye family hijinks don’t derail the wedding! Harlene and Attie’s future together is threatened when the bride-to-be’s awful ex-flame shows up with information she doesn’t want her fiancĂ© finding out. And Harlene’s not the only Frye keeping secrets: Sammy Jo refuses to tell her family she’s moving even though all her bags are already packed. As if that isn’t enough, Dewey can’t figure out why people keep on asking him to give his sister away and busybody Ozella Meeks has somehow ended up as the wedding coordinator. Will the Fryes be able to get Harlene down the aisle in one piece? A bighearted comedy about family—Southern-style. Logan Country Club, Chapmanville, WV Feb 3-5. 10-12, & 14, 2022 CAST & CREATIVES Production Creatives Melissa Frye-  Director Melissa is thrilled to once again be directing a show at Logan Country Club! Dinner and a comedy! What could be better!!!!   Mel