2021 Sampler returns to Reynolds Bend
By Sandy Morris
Just a few days remain before the traditional Fort Griffin Fandangle membership Sampler returns to Reynolds Bend, on the Lambshead Ranch.
For decades, the annual Sampler was held on the ranch, hosted by the late Watt Matthews, but the last time was more than 20 years ago.
Since then, it has moved around to various locations, including the Bank Park, Courthouse Square, Prairie Theater, and most recently, at the original townsite of Griffin Flat on Collins Creek Ranch.
The 2021 presentation is scheduled for this Saturday, April 17 with a 6:00 p.m. show time followed by live music, dancing, and a beef tenderloin dinner.
Musical entertainment will be provided by the Clear Fork Boys and guests after the Sampler.
Fandangle office manager Jamie Parsons said the Fandangle Association has received a great response from the invitations mailed out for the Sampler.
“We ended up turning in 250 RSVPs from Fandangle members for the Sampler,” said Parsons. “When we add in the cast and crew, our total number is 350.”
Parsons said people can continue to join the Fandangle at any time, but the deadline has passed to RSVP for the Sampler.
“Memberships are available online by going to www.fandangle.org and clicking on the ‘Join’ box,” said Parsons. “People can also call the office at 325-762-3838 to join. If nobody answers, please leave us a voicemail.”
Sampler Rehearsals
Fandangle artistic director Lorna Ayers and her staff handed out costumes to the cast last week in preparation for the Sampler.
Originally, plans were to move the rehearsals from downtown Albany out to Reynolds Bend starting this past Tuesday.
The rain that moved into the area earlier this week, coupled with a 98 percent chance of precipitation Tuesday night, forced rehearsals to be cancelled and rescheduled for Wednesday with the location to be determined based on the weather.
“It’s a little stressful this week with the weather situation,” said Parsons. “But we will get there and be ready for Saturday night.”
Ayers said that once rehearsals moved out to the Lambshead, practice would begin at 6:30 p.m. due to a lack of lighting once it becomes dark.
Summer Shows
The Prairie Theater has been the home of the summer Fandangle production since it was built in 1965.
This year, four performances are scheduled at the Prairie Theater – June 18, 19, 25, and 26 – starting at 8:30 p.m. each evening.
