PULASKI – Adaire Theatre is gearing up for its latest show,”Fly Me to the Moon,” and is also basking in the good news that the non-profit theater has been nominated for the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce 2019 Community Impact Award.
“When I started Adaire Theatre, it was all about giving people from my hometown something to look forward to,” said Kendall Payne, the theatre’s founder and Producing Artistic Director. “Everyone – no matter how much money you make, what side of the railroad tracks you live on, or how old you are.”
“At the end of the day, it’s always been about giving people quality entertainment, and a reason to get excited about the great potential this town offer,” Payne added.
The non-profit has been nominated for the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce 2019 Community Impact Award.
“When I found out the news, truth be told, I was shocked,” Payne said. “I couldn’t believe it. I am so honored knowing what we’re doing is making a difference.”
Whether Adaire Theatre wins the award or not, Payne said, it’s fuel to keep moving forward.
“We’re seeing our shows selling out and that means a lot, so we’re going to keep doing our part to bring the best entertainment around,” he said. “What we’re doing is not only reaching people here in Pulaski; we’ve had several come in from the Roanoke Valley, just to see one of our shows. That’s what makes this really awesome. We’re bringing people into Pulaski and they’re able to see what makes this town special. It’s all about making this town a destination.”
As “the momentum continues, the pace is picking up” explains Neesey Payne, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the theater who said staff is happy with its current production, “Sinatra: Fly Me to the Moon.”
“It’s a six–member male cast with a big band sound– singing all the favorites like, “Fly me to the Moon,” “The Way you Look Tonight,” and “Theme From New York, New York.” The show is a musical tribute to Sinatra set in Las Vegas,” explains Neesey. “The cast will take you on a journey through Sinatra’s life and the impact his sound made in the music industry.”
“Frank Sinatra has a timeless sound. No matter what generation you’re in, there’s going to be a song that will resonate with you,” said Keith Patrick McCoy, associate artistic director for Adaire Theatre.
“Sinatra: Fly Me to the Moon” has two remaining shows this weekend, Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Pulaski Elks Lodge. The Saturday performance is at 7 p.m. and the Sunday performance begins at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10. Online ticket purchase is encouraged in order to guarantee a seat, but may be purchased at the door. Visit adairetheatre.org for more information.
– Heather Bell