We did it! Actually, Fayetteville did it. The community showed up in supportive numbers to debut the area’s newest theatrical venue – the Fayetteville Dinner Theatre. Both performances sold out last Friday and Saturday nights as the Holiday Inn I-95, Up & Coming Weekly and Allegra Printing presented their first dinner theatre production: A Southern Girl’s got to Have It.  Written and directed by former Fayetteville resident Elaine Alexander, this hilarious southern comedy was the perfect centerpiece for an evening of music, food and fun – a cultural experience that complements and defines what Fayetteville is really about despite its frustrating attempts to overcome self-inflicted, dog-eared downtrodden perceptions of itself. 

But, not last weekend. Both evenings were about excitement and making sure our guests, who each invested $75 a ticket, had an experience that defined the hospitality, cultural excellence and sophistication that so many naysayers accuse Fayetteville of lacking. Well, no more driving to Raleigh, Chapel Hill or Durham for that ultimate theatrical experience.

So, a very special thank you to the perfect combination of people, organizations and local businesses that contributed to its success. The mission: give them the best we have locally. It was all about staying local and putting our best foot forward.  Our host, the Holiday Inn I-95, served up a great dinner with an extremely conscientious and uncommonly pleasant staff. Local businesses Draughon Brothers and Carolina Convention Services actually built the stage a nd provided the lights and sound under the supervision, talent and expertise of long-time Fayetteville resident and theatre technician, Martha Claybrook. Music was provided by Kia Walker, Bob Lawrence and Denny Dey of the Blue Violin while Lu Mil Vineyards served samples of their best wines. Bottom line: Fayetteville has revived the Fayetteville Dinner Theater.  Applause, applause.

P.S. A special thank you to our special guest 2016’s Miss Fayetteville Victoria Baskett. We wish her the best of luck in running for Miss North Carolina.

Last word: Residents of Fayetteville and Cumberland County no doubt recognize, appreciate and support quality venues and events. All we have to do is know how to provide them. Thanks for reading Up & Coming Weekly.