Permian Playhouse prepares for Cindy Ward performance

One of Cindy Ward’s cast members may be driving from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to perform in her upcoming performance, but Odessans won’t have to go that far to see it.

“Cindy Ward and Friends” is scheduled to be performed Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Permian Playhouse, Playhouse board member Steve Geddes said.

Inspired by the music she and her father listened to during drives in her youth; Ward said the show is a mix of country music, comedy and skits.

“It’s much like the Carol Burnett Show,” Ward said.

Featuring songs like “Mule Train” and “Cheater, Cheater”, in addition to three or four skits, Ward said audience members can expect good clean family fun.

“The theme on this one is country music,” Geddes said.

A longtime cast member in Ward’s performances, Michael Lackey said that despite his move to Alvord about two years ago, Ward has continued to ask him to participate in her performances.

Fond of the majority of her music choices and her creativity, Lackey said he’s happy to come back to Odessa.

“Her mind works like nobody else’s,” Lackey said.

While he hasn’t been able to participate in the rehearsals Lackey said he’s been practicing the songs on his own and will be in the dress rehearsal.

In addition to the comedy and music, Lackey said there’s something about seeing a live performance that you can’t get anywhere else.

With quite a few local fans Geddes expects the shows to be well attended.

“She’s got a pretty good following in the community,” Geddes said.

And it’s that following that Ward keeps in mind as she crafts her shows.

“She wants her audience to be entertained,” Lackey said.

IF YOU GO:

• What: “Cindy Ward and Friends.”
• When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.
• Where: Permian Playhouse, 310 W. 42nd St.  
• Tickets: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students and $7 for kids 12 and under.
• For more information: Call the Permian Playhouse at 550-5456.

@OAhealth