Hank Williams tribute: ‘No more sad songs’

(Lewisville) The tumultuous life, and final concert, of country music legend Hank Williams will be brought to life on the Performance Hall stage of the Medical Center of Lewisville Grand Theater when Texas Family Musicals presents “There’ll Be No Sad Songs” for three shows on Oct. 1-2.

Ticket prices range from $26 to $35, depending on the seating, and discounts are available for groups of 12 or more. Tickets can be purchased through Texas Family Musicals at its website, texasfamilymusicals.com. For information, call 800-547-4697.

Show times are 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2.

“There’ll Be No Sad Songs” stars talented singer and actor Kevin Kratzke, who is best known for his haunting portrayal of Buddy Holly in the long-running “The Night the Music Died” at MCL Grand and other North Texas theaters. He thrills audiences in this show with his soulful presentation of one of country music’s brightest stars and most heart-wrenching tragic tales.

Back on Dec. 19, 1952, the 314 people crowded into the popular Austin Skyline Club were totally unaware that they were watching the last concert of a future legend. This historical concert is lovingly recreated by the cast of “There’ll Be No Sad Songs.” The show also touches on the pain of the troubled star as he struggles to make it through the performance.

“We can’t overlook the pain and suffering Hank Williams endured due to his addictions, but we quickly move the show in an uplifting direction in order to celebrate the positive image of Hank Williams due to the public’s love of his music and artistry,” said Mike Skiles, executive producer of Texas Family Musicals.

The show is directed by Sam DiRosa, who is known for his ability to draw the most entertainment value out of any production. Joining Hank and the other singers on stage will be the New Drifter band who will make Hank Williams’ songs feel brand new again.

Texas Family Musicals has become a regular at MCL Grand this year, having produced the inaugural five-show series of Lewisville Summer Musicals as well as a special presentation of Greater Tuna. The group also performs on local stages in Grapevine and Granbury.

Medical Center of Lewisville Grand Theater, located at 100 N. Charles St. between Main and Church streets, opened its doors in January. The 40,000-square-foot facility features a 296-seat proscenium theater, black box theater, dance recital hall, art gallery, five art classrooms and a large courtyard. Medical Center of Lewisville reached a multi-year agreement with the city last year for naming rights at the center.

To reach the MCL Grand from Interstate 35E, take exit 452 and proceed east on Main Street to Charles Street. The MCL Grand will be on the left. Free public parking is available along Main and Church streets, or at Lewisville City Hall across Church Street from the center. Parking is not permitted on the grass lot across Church Street from MCL Grand.

For details about upcoming events, or rental information for the facility, visit mclgrand.com or call 972-219-8446.

  Buddy Holly, Grand Theater, Hank Williams, Lewisville, MCL, Medical Center, Sad Songs, Texas Family Musicals, tribute