There are some venues and shows that draw me back year after year. The Woodbine Opry is one such place in Woodbine, GA. Why?? There is a spirit about the place, and the people.
It all starts at the door. Miss Ivy (brash, bubbly, crusty) welcoming everyone in. She sets the tone and you know you are going to have a good time. Your next stop is the old cafeteria. There is good home cooking available each show night. That gives one the opportunity to visit with both the local attendees and those from “out of town.” Then it’s on to a couple hours of good, fun music.
The Opry is housed in the “Old School.” The old school renovation committee sells 50/50 and “goody table” tickets at the shows to maintain the old school building.
We have been going at least once a year for the past ten years or so.
The Opry celebrated its 25th year recently. That’s a lot of Friday and Saturday nights of music. Friday night is acoustic night featuring bluegrass, old country, and gospel music. Saturday night is dance night to country music.
Two of the founders are still active. Hoydt Drury and Jack Bethune host the Friday night show. Hoydt was unable to be at the show this past Friday, but was watching the live stream from home.
The Bethune family has become dear friends. They have invited us into their homes and shown us the very best of southern hospitality.
Some of you may recognize the Bethune name. Jackson Bethune is Jack’s grandson. He owns and operates Jackson Bethune Sound. He works sound at several festivals in the southeast, and travels with the Malpass Brothers.
Woodbine is a small town just 14 miles north of the Florida line at exit 14 on I-95 in Georgia.
Put it on your itinerary. You will be welcomed in!
Support your local music venues.
