If you’ve never experienced Country Tonite, it’s still never too late to put this long running show high on your list of things to do while you’re in the Smokies. And even if you’re already a fan of the highly acclaimed production, there’s no reason to say, “Been there, done that.” Country Tonite’s show continues to deliver plenty of variety and new entertainment for audiences old and new.
“We have an awesome show this season,” says Country Tonite marketing director Laurie Taylor. “Audiences can expect a true variety show—a full-scale production that is appealing to everyone from ages 3 to 93.”
And it all starts with the music, which spans the history of the country genre but then stretches out to include Gospel music and patriotic tunes, breathtaking dance routines and comic relief that’s dished out in large portions.
“Believe me, you don’t have to be a fan of country music to love Country Tonite,” says Taylor.
This year’s cast is sporting plenty of fresh faces, including two brand-new youth performers (at ages 8 and 10, they’re guaranteed to steal the show) as well as a new featured female vocalist and new dancers to dazzle with their fancy footwork. And as always, Country Tonite has brought new songs and new dance and comedy routines to the boards as part of its two-hour, high-energy extravaganza.
Tying the show together onstage is a multitalented cast whose talents blend together seamlessly on stage to create entertainment magic. Featured performers include longtime band member Mike Caldwell, who never fails to impress with his harmonica chops, host Kevin Wilson, who keeps the show flowing smoothly with his strong vocals and easy-going audience rapport, and Bubba the Redneck Ranger, whose hayseed high jinks keep audiences in stitches from start to finish.
“You can’t beat the lineup we’ve put together for this season,” Taylor says.
One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the quality of the show, which has racked up a virtual trophy case full of honor and awards since making its debut. The production, which is now in its 13th season in the Smokies, has been named “Country Music Show of the Year” by the NACMAI for seven consecutive years and “Best Live Country Show in America” by the CMAA for three consecutive years. It has also been voted “Best Show in the Smokies” in a local Readers’ Choice poll year after year after year.
And the raves for Country tonight won’t stop in November and December, which is when the theater stages its special holiday presentation. The first half of the show features highlights from the regular season, so if it’s your first visit to Country Tonite this year, you won’t be missing a thing. Then holiday magic abounds in the second half of the show, when the curtain rises on a winter wonderland. Santa Claus and other beloved Christmas characters will take the stage, and of course, holiday music will fill the air, from traditional Christmas carols to number-one seasonal hits.
Finally, Country Tonite in Pigeon Forge closes out its season with its annual New Year’s Eve show on December 31, beginning at 10 p.m. Guests will ring in 2010 with a balloon drop at midnight, complete with party favors, non-alcoholic beverages and some meet-and-greet time with the cast.
The theater also presents a morning show starring the talented Patty Waszak, who brings her fast-paced, one-woman variety act to the Country Tonite stage at 10 a.m. on selected dates. Waszak plays 30 musical instruments as part of her show, which also encompasses comedy, singing, trivia, audience participation and more.
Country Tonite’s shows are at 8 p.m. nightly, with 3:00 p.m. matinees on certain dates. For reservations and information, call 865-453-2003 or 800-792-4308, or visit www.countrytonitepf.com.
