The Woodtick Theater personifies the spirit of music and comedy of the popular public radio show, Prairie Home Companion. And though it may not look like Nashville's Grand Old Opry, the talent of its performers seems to leave audiences just as satisfied.

Cindy and Mike Chase purchased the Woodtick Theater in 1999 from the original owner, Frank Haas. Mike, an affable man with a friendly grin and a ponytail, is producer-director. He selects half a dozen songs and lets the Woodtick Band add their own songs to fill out the act. Cindy handles the business end. She also researches songs all year long, trying to discover what is popular each season.

The theater itself is a labor of love. Privately owned, it depends on ticket sales to stay open. There are no grants involved, and much of the profit goes back into the theater. Music and entertainment are very important to them, Mike and Cindy agree. They are fulfilling their dreams through the Woodtick Theater. "Akeley is this little diamond-in-the-rough where we can do it," Mike says.

Woodtick Theater's two-hour show features beautiful gospel music, comedy skits, lighthearted instrumentals, harmonicas, fiddles, and guitars. The show appeals to all ages -- families take their children and grandchildren for an afternoon or evening of entertainment.

A typical performance starts with a warm-up band, or, if you're lucky, Ryan Pels ambles onstage. A tree trimmer and Army Reservist in private life, Pels claims to be uncomfortable up there behind the lights. Somebody calls out "You seem awfully skittish!" "I have stage fright!" Pels hollers back. "I don't mind you people, but these stages are scary."

The audience loves the rapport and the performers encourage audience participation. Even usher Les Showalter is an essential part of the act. Frequent guests look forward to his warm greeting; he claims to know every guest personally. Showalter happened onto his part accidentally. He moved into the house in back of the theater, and he wandered over so often, he became a regular. He can spot a media person in the crowd and enthusiastically explains every detail of the theater and gushes over how wonderful Mike and Cindy are to keep it going.

We would like to thank the many people who make this show possible. First to our family and friends for their continued support and efforts, and to the founding fathers for their dreams. Also to the musicians who make the show "Come Alive" and lastly to you, our guests, who make it all possible! Thank you!