
About the Show
Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bright Star tells the unforgettable story of Alice Murphy, a literary editor whose past holds a secret that could change everything. Inspired by true events, this Tony-nominated musical blends the soulful sounds of bluegrass with a sweeping Broadway score, bringing a tale of love, loss, and redemption to life. With stunning music and a deeply moving narrative, Bright Star is an experience that stays with you long after the final note.
A portion of proceeds will go to support ArtsAVL Hurricane Relief Fund that assists artists & arts organizations in Buncombe County who were impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Musical | Heartwarming | Soulful | Uplifting | Bluegrass-Infused | Timeless Storytelling
Age Recommendation: 13+
The Cast
Brenda Bailey as Alice Murphy
Chris Inhulsen as Jimmy Ray Dobbs
Benaiah Adesoji as Billy Cane
Sky Symonds as Margo Crawford
Taufiki Lee as Mayor Josiah Dobbs
Joseph Basnight as Daryl Ames
Kaitlynn Bliss as Lucy Grant
Howard A. Lewis as Daddy Murphy
Ruthie Martinez as Mama Murphy
Thom Haynes as Dr. Norquist
Anthony Cooper as Daddy Cane
Diane Petteway | Musical Director/Piano
Emmaus Holder | Drums/Percussion
Joe Wimberly | Standup Bass
Steven Diggs | Mandolin (Keyboard)
Estyn Gerber | Cello
Andrew Chung | Cello* (5/4)
The Band
Hannah Ackman as Ensemble
Veniza Catlett as Ensemble
Vanaya Henderson as Ensemble
Doug Kapp as Ensemble
Verlene Oates as Ensemble
Natasha Tyson as Ensemble
Christa Irby as Ensemble
Aliya McCryndle as Ensemble
Skylar Fabien as Ensemble/Edna
Christian Brown as Ensemble/Max
Elisha Thomas as Ensemble/Stanford
Ginny Darcey as Ensemble/Florence
Omar Ruiz-Lopez | Fiddler* (4/24, 4/26, & 4/27)
Lindi Wang | Fiddler* (5/1, 5/2, 5/3, & 5/4))
Anvi Joshi | Fiddler (4/25 & 5/1)
Ted Dougherty | Banjo
Sinclair Palmer | Viola
Bernie Petteway | Guitar/Mandolin

Upcoming Shows/Events 2025



At Pure Life Theatre, we are dedicated to creating exceptional theatrical experiences that explore truth, hope, redemption, and love. Your donation helps us fulfill our mission to celebrate diversity, inspire creativity, and serve the community through life-giving performances. As a 501(c)(3) organization, your support ensures we can continue to bring stories that matter to life. Thank you for making a difference!



Map & Directions
Parking at William Peace University is free. The parking lot is located on the corners of Peace St. and N. Blount St. We do ask that you avoid any “No Parking” or “Reserved” areas marked by signs.
Leggett Theatre is located in the Main Building at the center of campus. Our signs and usher team are ready to direct you.