The Gospel According to Tennessee
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Behind the Scenes: Five Little Known Facts in “The Gospel According to Tennessee”
Hidden Gems in a Beloved Family Show
The most compelling stories often come from real life. So it is with “The Gospel According to Tennessee." This fast-paced musical drama is enthralling audiences at the NarroWay Theatre. Its unique blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and authentic Southern charm make it one of the most loved family shows to hit the stage.
Inspired by the life of Lessie Henderson, "The Gospel According to Tennessee" is set in 1926. The quaint community of Southerland, located in East Tennessee, provides the backdrop. The set even includes a replica of Backbone Rock, a scenic landmark in the Appalachian Mountains.
Some events in the show are actual happenings in Lessie’s life. Others derive from the legacy of her courageous spirit. NarroWay writer Rebecca Martin skillfully weaves fact with fiction to craft a moving narrative of faith and perseverance that is true to the character of the strong Appalachian woman fom whom this beloved family show was inspired.
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing "The Gospel According to Tennessee," you know it’s more than just a show—it’s an immersive journey into the past and a powerful story of unshakable faith. But behind the lively performances, heartfelt music, and toe-tapping choreography, there are some fascinating tidbits that make this production extra special. Buckle up as we dive into five little-known facts from behind-the-scenes in this one-of-a-kind show. These hidden gems add layers of meaning and charm to an already unforgettable experience.
The words from Lessie’s book are entirely her original words.
Near the end of the show, alternating scenes feature Lessie as she reads from a book she has written. These words transcend time as they step through history actually originating with the real Lessie Henderson in the late 1920's.
Near the end of the show, alternating scenes feature Lessie as she reads from a book she has written. These words transcend time as they step through history actually originating with the real Lessie Henderson in the late 1920's.
In the final years of her young life, Lessie Henderson wrote a little book she expected others would one day read. Lessie's book was discovered when her daughter, Margaret, passed away at the age of 83. In writing “The Gospel According to Tennessee,” Martin chose to use the words from Lessie’s book unedited. Lessie’s own words resonate across nearly a century and connect deeply with today’s audience.
Sign language in the song “Let Your Imagination Run Wild” is not relaying words from the song.
Rather, it’s a visual prayer that reflects the character of God. Words like "Holy, Wonderful, Conqueror, Almighty” and others convey His nature through sign language.
Rather, it’s a visual prayer that reflects the character of God. Words like "Holy, Wonderful, Conqueror, Almighty” and others convey His nature through sign language.
"Let Your Imagination Run Wild" is a moving song set against the backdrop of grief. While it could have been beautifully interpreted through sign language, choreographer Hope Wooten took a different approach. She drew inspiration from the Kaddish, a traditional Jewish prayer. Be sure to catch our next blog post for a deep dive into why Wooten made this choice.
Within the cast, there is a remarkable family connection to the past.
Lessie's oldest granddaughter, now in her 90's, performs in the show. Vivian Manuel Martin is the daughter of Lessie's oldest daughter, Margaret. Martin performs on stage every other weekend. Although Martin never met her grandmother, she is thrilled to be part of a production inspired by her life.
Lessie's oldest granddaughter, now in her 90's, performs in the show. Vivian Manuel Martin is the daughter of Lessie's oldest daughter, Margaret. Martin performs on stage every other weekend. Although Martin never met her grandmother, she is thrilled to be part of a production inspired by her life.
Martin would not have this opportunity were it not for her daughter. Perhaps you've made the connection already. Writer Rebecca Martin is the daughter of Vivian Martin. Thus, Rebecca is the great-granddaughter of Lessie Henderson.
Vivian Manuel Martin, Lessie Henderson's oldest granddaughter
Writer K. Rebecca Martin, Lessie Henderson's great-granddaughter
Hope Brown Wooten, Lessie Henderson's great-great-granddaughter
Elijah Phelps, Lessie Henderson's great-great-great-grandson
The butter churn on the set is a genuine antique passed down in Lessie's family.
When attending "The Gospel According to Tennessee," you'll notice an old butter churn on the Henderson family's porch. This churn is not just a prop; it's a piece of history.
When attending "The Gospel According to Tennessee," you'll notice an old butter churn on the Henderson family's porch. This churn is not just a prop; it's a piece of history.
Once used by Margaret Henderson Manuel and her husband, Coy, the butter churn was a practical tool used for many years. Margaret and Coy used the churn to make large butter sticks from the milk cream produced by their cows. This authentic set piece links the show’s visual elements to its historic roots.
