Chattanooga Is Home

Friday was my last day as a working mom. My mom has been here helping us out as we transition to my life as a stay at home mom. Since Friday was kind of special, I thought it would be neat to do something with my mom as a thank you and mini-celebration.

I decided that visiting the Mountain Opry for the first time would be a great experience for both of us. From what I had heard, the music and atmosphere would be great and it would be pretty laid back as something we could just go see and then leave when we needed to.

I found some information on the very outdated website, but the best information I could find was at Tennessee Vacation. Their driving directions (using google maps) were spot on. From my house in St. Elmo, all the way up Signal Mountain, and to the opry, it took about 20 minutes.

The old playhouse was full of history, you could just tell by just looking at it from the outside. Inside there were ancient theater seats that need some handyman attention (my mom kept slipping forward in her seat), but that was the only discomfort we felt.

The first act was a group of older gentlemen who probably helped make the Mountain Opry what it is today. Some googling has helped me figure out that the act is Down Yonder, and the oldest member of the group, Rufus Elliott has been with the Opry since it opened 24 years ago. He told one of his famous “Alabama” jokes and the group sang many Bluegrass songs that were familiar to everyone in attendance.

There were four more acts. A gentleman who sang three songs and told a few jokes (The best thing about senility is you can hide your own Easter eggs).The third act I think was called The Hill Toppers. I enjoyed their selections, especially their “Turn the Radio on.”

The most exciting act for me was two young ones (probably about 15 years old) who played several songs including Tennessee’s own “Rocky Top.” I was really impressed with how well those boys could play. I am sorry that I didn’t get their names, especially since the emcee for the evening gave a list of young ones who have played the opry and gone on to do big things in Country Music. These boys could be big some day and I can say I saw them when they were young.

The final act was a gentleman named Michael. Apparently he had been playing at the Mountain Opry since he was 10. Michael picked his banjo for about 5 songs before my mom and I left. I was tired, but knew I had a really good time.

And if you missed this Friday’s performance, you can always check out the Mountain Opry every Friday night, starting at 8 pm. 2501 Fairmount Pk., Signal Mountain, TN

Here is a small sample:

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Post script: One of my favorite things about the Mountain Opry were the cloggers. Behind the musicians were seats for people who wanted to dance whenever the mood struck. There were women who had clogging shoes that really added something to the sound of the bluegrass. There were children dancing and twirling and just enjoying the music of the evening. Too bad they were behind the musicians, because I would have liked a better view of their dancing. Next time I go, I will probably sit to the side to get a better look.