The Saluda Historic Depot Theatre Troupe is producing Saluda’s first musical, which will premiere at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Party Place & Event Center, 221 Friendship Church Road, Saluda.

The production will depict Saluda’s historical progression, from the time the Cherokee Indians settled in the land of “green corn” until today. The original play was written by Corinne Gerwe in collaboration with members of the newly-formed Young Acting Krew, or “YAK,” of the Saluda Historic Depot Theatre Troupe, with a musical score written by Dan Foster, which will be performed by his band, The Radio Rangers.

Foster is a singer/songwriter based in Atlanta. 

“Saluda Grade” was written by him after he noticed the historical marker describing the legendary Saluda Grade while walking around the city before performing at the Purple Onion. In 2009, it was featured on an album by High Cotton that spent several weeks on the Georgia top 20 roots music charts. Foster rearranged the song for the play with his current group, The Radio Rangers.

Accompanying Foster will be the rest of The Radio Rangers: Mark Ewald, a singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist from Atlanta, Georgia, and Bryant Kachel.

 “The history of Saluda is unique but shares a heritage with so many communities across our country,” Foster said. “The railroads were the backbone of our country’s growth and touched so many people and communities. I believe the wisdom to move forward is provided by the struggles of our past. I am honored to help in this small way to the celebration of Saluda history. Saluda is a special place.” 

Doors for Saturday’s “one night only” performance will open at 6 p.m. Those interested in learning more may contact Judy Ward at 828-674-5958 or judyward@charter.net, or Corinne Gerwe at cgerwe@rsnet.org or 828-749-4803.

– Submitted by Cathy Jackson