The Hallelujah Girls

Southern Humor at Lyric Arts Theater

By Beverly Bushyhead

This was my first visit to Lyric Arts Theater in Anoka, Minnesota. Upon entering, the lobby staff welcomes guests warmly. The funky wine bar and concessions prepare attendees for an evening of fun.

It was opening night for Hallelujah Girls. Hysterical events ensue for the feisty females of Eden Falls, Georgia, who decide to go for their dreams and live life fully. This is the boisterous Southern comedy created in SPA-DEE-DAH the abandoned church turned day spa where this group of friends gathers every Friday afternoon.

Sugar Lee helps them realize time is precious after the death of their friend and encourages them to change their lives and achieve their dreams now! It’s not easy convincing them to change but Sugar Lee is determined. Carlene’s given up
on romance, having buried three husbands. Nita’s a basket case from her co-dependent reactions to her problematic son. Mavis’ marriage is all but dead and she wishes she could fake her own death to get out of it. Sweet, simple Crystal entertains them all, singing Christmas carols with her made up, hilarious lyrics.

The hysterical plot thickens when a sexy, ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, a marriage proposal surprises everyone and Sugar Lee’s arch rival displays patience and pure evil as she tries to steal the spa away from her. The Hallelujah Girls rally together. The comedic timing is wicked! Each scene transitions from holiday tune to holiday tune with transitions of classic rock.

Great connections between the actors make this story flow. Nice and clever set! Crystal played by Debbie Swanson absolutely steals the show!

It was a real nice turnout. The audience enjoyed the show and consisted of regular Lyric Arts Theater buffs. My favorite moment was when the group spontaneously joined the underscore of “Ring of Fire” and sang along with Johnny Cash.

Thank you Lyric Arts Theater – Great job!

A little bit about Beverly:

Perhaps it is my Native American background; that immersion in oral tradition, that created my fascination for stories. Theater productions animate stories for the community. In my tradition, stories make lessons easier to learn, reflect reality in ways that are non-threatening and teach morality through a shared experience with those around us.

My name is Beverly Bushyhead; I am an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology, and two Master’s degrees in Non-profit Management and Public Administration. I am happy to share my perspective with you.