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GSCT Presents HATS, The Musical
Patricia Young, left and Melody Heflin
Question: What has 22 legs, wrinkles all over, sings it heart out, and giggles uncontrollably? Answer: The cast of Greater Shelby Community Theatre’s production of HATS! the Musical. Inspired by the mission and philosophy of the Red Hat Society, HATS! is a new musical about 49.999 year old Mary Anne (played by Mary Frye), who reluctantly faces turning the Big 5-0...until she is consoled by a group of remarkable women who show her about fun, friendship and forgiveness.
The cast of GSCT’s production is a spicy mix of theatre veterans and newcomers to the GSCT stage. Although the cast’s stage experience varies, their list of vocal accomplishments are impressive. The combination of voices, harmony and personality make this play a “must-see”. HATS! features original music by a team of Grammy, Golden Globe, and Tony award-winning songwriters, including Kathy Lee Gifford and Pam Tillis. You’ll be humming the tunes long after you leave the theatre!
“I’m having a blast!”, says Caroline Dedmon, who plays the role of Baroness - hard-driving, middle-aged executive. “I love to sing and laugh!” In this play, I get to do both!” In addition to the Baroness, Mary Anne is counseled in story and song by Duchess (Annette Toms), Contessa (Caroline Laney), Dame (Linda Nichols), Lady (Patricia Young), and Princess (Georgianna Wright). Supporting actresses include Beth Cameron (Pearl), Melody Heflin (Ruby), Terry McCollum (Queen), and Tyra Silvers (Sapphire).
Of the play, director Janet Sims says, “Life imitates art. Many of the women were drawn to the play because they wanted to challenge themselves at this stage of their life. We’ve had some major obstacles to overcome but the cast has bonded and pulled together to help each other. They’re even planning crockpot dinners together! It’s been a uniquely female experience!”
HATS! will be performed in the Keeter Auditorium on the CCC campus Fri., March 11, Sat., March 12, Fri., March 18 and Sat., March 19 at 7:30 p.m. Performances on Sunday, March 13 and Sunday, March 20 are at 2:30. Tickets for adults are $12 and senior/students are $10. Discount presale tickets are available at Arnold’s Jewelers, Badcock & More, CC Arts Council, Maxwell Hamrick Ins., and Neal Senior Center. Sell-out crowds are expected, so reservations are recommended by calling 704-480-8495 and leaving a message.
HATS! is funded in part by a Grassroots grant from the NC Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Cultural Resources and the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves a great art. www.gsct.org.

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