HONKY TONK ANGELS: SASS, CLASS AND COUNTRY MUSIC DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR HEART

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By Kathy Carpenter

April 26, 2023 (La Mesa) - Honky Tonk Angels delivers an electrifying dose of pure country energy with a powerhouse cast and a playlist of iconic hits that will have you singing along and cheering for these fierce, flawed and unforgettable women. Written by Ted Swindle, directed by Jonathan Sturch and with Jerrica Ignacio as music director, this musical revue is a must-see for fans of classic country music and the stories that come with it.

Honky Tonk Angels features three women from different backgrounds who meet on a bus to Nashville, destined to sing some of the most beloved songs in country music history. The result is a night of foot-stomping fun, tear-jerking ballads and a celebration of the power of female friendship.

The cast of Honky Tonk Angels is outstanding. Each performer brings a unique energy and style to their role, from the sassy and confident Angela (played by Amy Nelson) to the vulnerable and sweet Darlene (played by Kaitlyn McFarlane), a girl from Mississippi with a great singing voice. Gabriela Jentzsch also shines as the recently quit Sue Ellen, looking for something new in her life. Kara Tuckfield, who plays a bus passenger and bartender, adds another dimension to the cleverness outside of the music.

The chemistry between the three women is a standout feature of the show. Whether they're harmonizing on a classic tune or ribbing each other with playful banter, you can't help but feel like you're watching a real sisterhood on stage.

The musical numbers in Honky Tonk Angels are a mix of well-known hits and lesser-known gems, all performed with authenticity and heart. From "Stand by Your Man" to "Coal Miner's Daughter," each song is given the full country treatment, complete with twangy guitars and plenty of soulful vocals. Even if you're not a die-hard country fan, it's hard not to get caught up in the infectious energy of the music.

Lamplighters is an intimate venue, but they included an onstage band. One man playing banjo and music alone in the first act, a tremendous talent. Then a full country playing band in the second half to bring a more powerful presence to the show. Great musicians, though I couldn't locate them in the program.

At its core, Honky Tonk Angels is a celebration of the joys and struggles of life, told through the lens of classic country music. It's a reminder that no matter where we come from or what we've been through, we all have a song to sing. With a cast this talented and a playlist this good, you'll be singing along before you know it. Don't miss your chance to join the Honky Tonk Angels for a night of music, laughter and heart.

Lamplighters Theatre

Honky Tonk Angels

April 21 - May 14, 2023

5915 Severin Dr. La Mesa, CA 91942

www.LamplightersLa Mesa.com

Last show of the season:  Silkworms, a drama by local playwright Connie Terwilliger


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