Small town dreams take center stage in Titusville Playhouse's 'May We All'

Titusville Playhouse is saving a song for you in "May We All," a heartwarming journey through the heart of country music. The show opens Friday, March 8 for a run through April 7.

Filled with the hits of megastars like Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert and Dolly Parton, the musical promises a ride through small town America. Inspired by the song of the same name by Florida Georgia Line and Tim McGraw, "May We All" tells a tale of dreams, struggles and triumphs against the backdrop of a town called Harmony, Tennessee.

The musical follows singer Jenna Coates, played in the Titusville production by Claire Latourette. In the story, Jenna left Harmony years ago to chase fame in Nashville. Now she has returned, disillusioned and discouraged, to find the town struggling through an economic downturn. Jenna will need to reconnect with the people she left behind, and make peace with her past to save herself and the small town she loves.

"I grew up in a very small town that mirrors Harmony a lot," said director Steven Heron. "As I have directed this musical it has taken me back to my roots and reminded me of all the simple and fun times I had growing up."

"Most importantly, this show is about the people who make a community, and I am so proud of the cast that is bringing the relatable realness to this show," he said.

Get outside! Outdoor festival season is in full swing on the Space Coast

Mark your calendar: 60+ fun things to do in Brevard in March, from outdoor festivals to St. Patrick's Day

On stage in Cocoa Beach: Surfside Playhouse promises fun, laughs, good times with 'Sweet Charity'

From the aspiring country singer chasing stardom to the farmer trying to save his land, "May We All" shows us characters we will recognize.

"Along with the family at the center of the show, there is something that every person can find to relate to in 'May We All,'" Heron said. "Family, heart, community, laughter and perseverance is what we have all experienced in our own lives, and it is moving to see all of that displayed, while being respected, on stage in this new show."

"May We All" boasts a soundtrack that is a character in itself. "Most country music are songs that are storytelling," Heron said. "The authors of the show have done a great job at picking familiar songs that continue to tell the story while being familiar tunes that people know and love."

"Even those people who may not be country music listeners will love the show because you will recognize some of the music," he said. "I guarantee you will go home singing songs you have never heard of before."

But don't think this is just a jukebox musical. "May We All" is a love letter to the heartland and the people who call it home. As the characters navigate the challenges of life in a small town, they discover that strength can be found in the bonds of family and the support of their neighbors.

"The town is hopeful and yet discovers, through Jenna’s return,  that getting in touch with their traditions as a community is what they need to help push through the hard times," Heron said.

"I feel that everyone will be able to see someone they know and love on the stage," he said. "I hope everyone, like myself, will love the escape to a simpler time."

The musical reminds us that no matter where life takes us, the spirit of home and the power of music will always guide us on our journey.

If you go

'May We All, a New Country Musical'

Where: Titusville Playhouse, 301 Julia Street, Titusville

When: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through April 7

Tickets: Start at $30

Info: 321-268-1125

Website: titusvilleplayhouse.com

Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at [email protected].

Whether you're interested in music, theater, festivals or other local entertainment, FLORIDA TODAY has got you covered. Support local journalism by subscribing at Special Offers - USAToday Network.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Titusville Playhouse brings on the country charm for 'May We All'