Morrison reprises her Patsy Cline role

By CHARLES W. JOHNSON / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Naomi Morrison performs with her dad, David, at the Jacky Jack White show. The 17-year-old singer, from Viola, will be starring as Patsy Cline tonight in the show “Always Patsy Cline” at the Arts Center of Cannon County. (Charles W. Johnson photo)

Local songstress Naomi Morrison, 17, will be performing this weekend in her signature role “Always Patsy Cline” at the Arts Center of Cannon County. The shows will be at 7:30 p.m. tonight and Saturday. Extra performances have also been scheduled at the same time next weekend, Jan. 24 and 25. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for students.

Morrison, a talented singer noted for her powerful and melodic voice, has performed the role many times previously, first in July of 2001 at the Arts Center, in Sevierville this past September and in Brownsville, Madisonville and Shelbyville last November. Her performances have generated rave reviews.

She stars in the show as Patsy Cline and sings 26 songs, along with co-star Debera Obenchain from Shelbyville.

Morrison, who is from Viola, is currently working on a country/bluegrass album with Tootsies Orchid Records in Nashville. She is the daughter of local singer/songwriter David Morrison, of Mountain Melodies Music, and his wife Karen. Proud dad David says he hopes to get Naomi on the Grand Ole Opry for her 18th birthday on Feb. 27.

Those who want to see a local star in the making, or just love Patsy Cline and her music, should check out Naomi’s performance this weekend at the Arts Center. For further information, or to make reservations, contact the Arts Center of Cannon County at 615-563-ARTS (2787) or 800-235-9073.