HUMBOLDT — A tribute to a radio show that gave many classic country music singers their start is coming back to Humboldt.
From 1949 to 1960, the Louisiana Hayride featured such legends as Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Roy Orbison, Patsy Cline, Crystal Gayle, Lefty Frizzell, Loretta Lynn and Willie Nelson.
The Louisiana Hayride Show pays tribute to these artists, plus those that were inspired by them, like Shania Twain ,Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Conway Twitty and Charley Pride.
“The talented singers and musicians of the Louisiana Hayride Show recreate these iconic artists and take you on a musical journey with their legendary hits,” said Gil Risling, one of the show’s operators and performers. “The ability of the cast to transform themselves into the artists they are portraying, both in look and sound is amazing.”
The show has been touring across Western Canada since 2010.
“The cast and crew of the Louisiana Hayride are dedicated to bringing authentic music to you,” Risling said. “The songs you hear will be true to the originals.”
The cast of multi-talented musicians includes Gil Risling on electric and acoustic guitar, and amazing vocals when in character as Roy Orbison. Andrea Anderson is second to none in her portrayal of Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Crystal Gayle. Her newest character, Shania Twain, will absolutely delight you! Derek Pulliam adds stand-up bass, guitar and authentic vocals when he treats the audience to songs by classic country legends such as Merle Haggard, Conway Twitty and Buck Owens. Elvis tribute artist Vic De Sousa adds another dimension to the Louisiana Hayride Show.
It’s not just the older generation who knows the songs from when they came out that come to the shows, but also younger people that enjoy classic country tunes, said Lori Risling, another one of the show’s operators and performers back in 2017 when she visited the region.
“We’ve got young people, maybe in the 15 to 35 age range, coming more and more, loving it, recognizing the songs from what their parents or grandparents were playing.”
The Louisiana Hayride Show will be coming to the Humboldt Convention Centre within the Uniplex on March 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be brought at Humboldt Shoppers Drug Mart or online at showpass.com.
