With country music ingrained in her roots, Amber Joy Poulton has always loved the stories told within the genre’s songs. When looking to create a show based on one of country music’s leading ladies, she discovered the resilient Loretta Lynn. Poulton brings Lynn’s life to the stage in Coal Miner’s Daughter which stops at Canberra Theatre on 13 November.
Moved by the way Lynn told her life story in her tunes, delivering even the darkest times in upbeat melodies, Poulton says you wouldn’t know how unhappy she was at times unless you really listened to the lyrics. Throughout Lynn’s career, a number of her songs were banned from radio stations, including The Pill. Written as a commentary after she was married at 14 without being taught the birds and bees, she didn’t understand how she had four children by the age of 18, according to Poulton.
“She talks about how you don’t have to worry any more, Daddy, to her husband because I’m on the pill … Church-going folks couldn’t take contraception, she actually talking about political issues,” Poulton explains.
Even though things are done differently now, Poulton says it’s important to keep the stories alive. She relates to Lynn in more than looks; she is inspired by the fact she had six children and a thriving career touring the country. Poulton says she is often asked who is looking after the kids when she tours, something she is sure her husband isn’t asked.
The show shares the songs sung by Lynn, as well as those of her friends and collaborators like Dolly Parton and Conway Twitty. It explores the friendship between Lynn and Patsy Cline who encouraged Lynn and helped her step into the spotlight. Poulton says she thinks the connection between the friends and the impact Cline’s untimely death had on Lynn is an important part of the show.
“She and Patsy Cline paved the way for women country singers like myself to have it a bit easier.”
Poulton says the purpose of the show has changed somewhat following Lynn’s recent passing. Now, more than ever, they want to share her story, ensure people don’t forget her songs, and celebrate the incredible life she led.
“In country music you can write, sing and perform until your last breath. There is no expiry date.”
Celebrate the life of Loretta Lynn in Coal Miner’s Daughter at Canberra Theatre, 13 November 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au
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