Rain did little to dampen the spirit of The On the Road Again Show.
Despite heavy showers, the event took place Saturday night at Warren County A&L Fair as notable characters did their best to impersonate distinguished personalities including Kenny Rogers, Tanya Tucker, Jason Aldean, Johnny Cash, and Adele, among others.
Kevin Deason, who emcees the event barefoot, dressed in overalls and offering comedic commentary in between performances as Bubba, introduced his “son Bubba J” to the show. Bubba J was performed by B.B. Elam.
“Bubba J, where are you going with that shotgun?” asked Deason.
Elam, “I’m going fishing.”
“Son, you can’t do that in the big city,” said Deason.
Elam, “It’s how we do it in Viola.”
“Yes, but these city folks wouldn’t understand,” said Deason, as he handed Elam a fishing pole. “You have to use one of these here, son.”
Elam, “But the fish are in plastic bags.”
“Seriously? The fish are in plastic bags?” asked Deason.
Elam, “Yes, Pa. They’re in plastic bags at the fair.”
“Well then, you might need this,” said Deason, exchanging the two items.
Other famous persons imitated during the event were Maren Morris, Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, The Judds, Kid Rock, Van Morrison, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Rogers, Dottie West, Soggy Bottom Boys, and the Blues Brothers.
Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless America” was performed by the entire cast in recognition of Sept. 11, 2001. Performers were: Tom Thaxton, Marian Thaxton, Lisa Hobbs, Greta Hoover, Billy Kesey, Steven Helton, Rhiannon Hoover, Connie Pack, Kelly Walker Slaughter, Kelly Taylor, Kara Helton, Steve Helton, Ashley Silvus, Kevin Deason, Johnny Sweeton, and Tyler Jones.
The On the Road Again Show is a mainstay during Viola Valley Homecoming, which is slated for Oct. 8 this year.