Tammy Faye Musical Opens at Palace Theatre

The Lenoir Community College will stage the musical 'Hello, Dolly!' from November 15-24, directed by Jessica Cruz, showcasing the charm and vibrancy of turn-of-the-century New York City. This production features local talents, including Aaron Williams as Rudolph Reisenweber and Alyssa Bayless Tiburcio as Ernestina, promising an evening filled with love and laughter. In contrast, the new Elton John musical 'Tammy Faye' opens on Broadway, exploring the rise of televangelists Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker, with a score by John and lyrics by Jake Shears, set to premiere on November 14 at the Palace Theatre. While 'Tammy Faye' has been acclaimed for its vibrant staging and performances, critics note its superficial treatment of the characters' complexities. The musical has already received multiple Olivier Award nominations and is expected to resonate differently with audiences familiar with Tammy Faye's story. Both productions highlight the importance of personal journeys and community connection through their respective narratives.