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Whether you like country music or not, you will love the Bluewater Summer Playhouse production of "Sweet Dreams, A Tribute to Patsy Cline."

Featuring Leisa Way as Cline, backed by a four-piece band, the show is one whirlwind of music and fun from start to finish.

Way is exceptional in the title role, erupting onto the stage in a bright red, fringed country outfit, complete with cowboy hat, and captivating the audience right from the beginning as she tells the story of Cline and her rise to stardom.

With an incredible vocal range and musical talent, Way is at one point dancing across the stage to a fast, country tune, and then bringing her rich, vibrant voice to bear on a slow, moving ballad.

For the second half, Way is dressed in a glittery evening gown, sporting the shorter hairstyle that Cline wore to cover the scars on her forehead, following a serious car accident. But she continues the same energetic, smooth performance as before, taking the audience through a total of 30 of Cline's greatest hits throughout the show.

If you know Cline's story, you know that she was only 30 years old when she was killed in a plane crash in 1963. However, Way focuses on the music and the great legacy that Cline left behind, in particular how she was able to make her dreams come true from 1960-63.

Of course, the highlight of the show comes at the end when Way enthralls the audience with her rendition of Cline's signature song, "Crazy." It is a marvellous show, and a real tribute to the much-loved Patsy Cline.

The Wayward Wind band is tremendous, providing perfect instrumental and vocal accompaniment. And Way ensures that the musicians receive their just recognition. Joining her in the show are Bruce Ley, musical director/piano and guitar; Kim Ratcliffe, guitars; Dave Wilson, drums; and Bob Hewus, bass.

"Sweet Dreams" opened Tuesday, July 5, to a full house, with appetizers provided by Crabby Joe's Tap and Grill.

The show continues tonight, Saturday, July 9, at 9 p.m., Tuesday, July 12, at 8 p.m., with a wine and cheese appreciation time from 5:30-7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, July 13, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Thursday, July 14, and Friday, July 15, at 8 p.m.; and Saturday, July 16 at 9 p.m.

Tickets are $22 plus tax for matinees, and $24 plus tax for evening performances. They are available by contacting the Bluewater Summer Playhouse Box Office at 519-396-5722, toll-free at 1-877-396-5722, or by E-mail at:  boxoffice@bluewatersp.on.ca

The theatre is located in the Kincardine Arts Centre at 707A Queen St., Kincardine. Sponsor of the "Sweet Dreams" show is Ontario Power Generation (OPG).

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Friday, July 08, 2011