Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Pam Johnson
Mark your calendars now to see CRAZY FOR YOU, a hilarious musical that includes memorable Gershwin tunes such as “I Got Rhythm,” “Shall We Dance,” and “Someone to Watch Over Me.”
The show tells the story of Bobby Child (Lucas Schmidt), a New York banker, who is sent to Deadrock, Nev., to foreclose on a rundown theatre. There, he meets Polly Baker (Brittany Whitson), the theatre owner’s daughter, and vows to win her heart and save the theatre.
“CRAZY FOR YOU is the quintessential American musical comedy,” said director Liz Dollar. “It takes the familiar story of ‘boy meets girl, boy loses girl, will boy get the girl back?’ and combines it with the beloved music of the Gershwins, endearing characters, comic moments, and spectacular dancing. It has everything fans of musical comedy love!”
The Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, known for its talented actors, musicians and dancers, is the perfect theatre to help you fall in love with this musical.
“Our JRT cast completely makes this show, in my opinion,” said Whitson. “Every single person is very talented and brings so much. I think if you’re not familiar with this show, you might leave with it as your new favorite!”
Though CRAZY FOR YOU was first introduced on Broadway 30 years ago, its story and music remain applicable to this day!
“The story is still as relevant, engaging, and fun today,” said Catherine Squibb, who plays Irene Roth, “as it was when it was released, because it has a timeless humor and charm. I think that people can still take a great message from the story about how we often find happiness in the most unexpected places. Life doesn’t always meet our expectations, but we still find ourselves where we need to be.”
Shawn Hale, who portrays Everett Baker, agreed with the show’s message for current times. “More than anything today, we need to believe and know that if you follow your dreams and you work hard, anything is possible.”
JRT’s CRAZY FOR YOU is directed by Liz Dollar, music directed by Suzanne Cook, choreographed by Rebekah Knisely and Jessica Shelton, assistant directed by Catherine Oakes, and stage managed by Emma Perry. Sponsors for this production are Henry and Joy Flora, Sonia King, John and Bonita Martin, and Dan and Pamela Pope. (And a belated special thank you to Susan Ellis for being one of the sponsors of JRT’s previous show THE MUSIC MAN.)
Rounding out the cast are Travis Acree, Kaden Carson, Cleo Farr, Janette Gaines, Fritz Hagemeier, Shawn Hale, Joseph Hunter, Rebekah Knisley, JJ Lane, Dylan Martin, Erin Miller Goines, Catherine Oakes, Kate Palmer, Taylor Phillips, Justin Reilly, Andy Rogers, Jessica Shelton, Corey Tickles, Bryttany Todd, and Zeph Wells.
Shows run Thursdays through Sundays, October 13 – 29, at the theatre located at 125.5 W. Main St., Jonesborough. Tickets are $18 general admission, $16 for students and seniors. There is also a special group rate for parties of 15 or more. To purchase tickets, call the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423-753-1010 or go online to jonesboroughtheatre.com.