Sampler returns to ‘The Flat’ Saturday
By David H. Waller
This year’s Fort Griffin Fandangle Sampler is set for Saturday evening at the historic Collins Creek Ranch, offering a special preview of the summer show in a setting that harkens back to the roots of Fort Griffin.
Fandangle Director Lorna Ayers said the cast has been enjoying the challenge of performing a number of rarely heard songs. “They’re not new songs technically, but they feel brand new,” Ayers said. “I pulled them out of the Fandangle vault, and at least one of them—written by Bill Overton—has never been performed. Others haven’t been done in so long that no one we know remembers them. So, for both the cast and the audience, it’s going to feel like a fresh take on the Fandangle.”
The Sampler, held each spring as a special benefit event for members, features a smaller cast than the summer production.
Being back at Collins Creek Ranch is another special element this year. “It’s been a few years since we’ve held the Sampler there because of the weather,” Ayers said. “But it’s meaningful to be back at the original Fort Griffin site. The built-in sets, the wagons, the horses—it really feels like stepping back in time.”
In the event of inclement weather, the performance will be moved to the Whitney Theatre.
Memberships to the Fort Griffin Fandangle are still available and include admission to the Sampler. They can be purchased at fortgriffinfandangle.com or by calling the Fandangle office at 325-762-3838.
Rehearsals for the full summer production are scheduled to begin in mid-May.
“It’s been fun and challenging,” Ayers said. “We’re all looking forward to sharing this special evening with our members in such a meaningful place.”
