The Spitfire Grill The Musical

Music and Book by James Valcq
Lyrics and Book by Fred Alley
Based on the film by Lee David Zlotoff

The Spitfire Grill 1996 Film Version (DVD)  

The Spitfire Grill Off-Broadway Cast Recording  

Based on the film of the same name. Percy Talbot has just been released from a five year prison sentence for manslaughter. She is seeking a place for a fresh start, and based on a page from an old travel book, travels to the small town of Gilead, Wisconsin. She finds a job at the Spitfire Grill, but quickly finds that the town itself is in despair.

The music is inspired by rural folk music traditions indigenous to Wisconsin and Southern Appalachia (in other words, it has a folk/country feel)

Percy Talbot (Mezzo with Belt to D, mid 20s)

A feisty parolee desperate to start over. Her past has given her wisdom and sadness beyond her years. Reba MacIntire type.

Hannah Ferguson (Character Mezzo/Alto, 55+)

The tough-skinned owner of the Spitfire Grill, a widow with a short, no-nonsense manner bordering the bitter

Caleb Thorpe (Folk/rock baritone to G, early 40s)

Hannah’s bitter and frustrated nephew and former foreman of the stone quarry. Frustrated as he loses control over most aspects of his life, he exerts control over his wife.

Shelby Thorpe (Soprano With Belt to D, 30s)

Caleb’s meek but soulful wife with a shy, almost ethereal manner. She begins to show confidence under Percy's influence.

Effy Krayneck (Mezzo/Alto)

nosy and opinionated postmistress - must carry close harmonies

Joe Sutter (Folk Tenor to G/A, 20s - 30s)

The local sheriff and Percy's parole officer - he has an appealing intensity and a restless nature.

The Visitor (40s)

A mysterious figure who never speaks. An actor with powerful eyes and a very strong sense of his body.

Aida, Witches of Eastwick, Civil War, Triumph of Love, My Life with Albertine

• A Ring Around The Moon
• Something's Cooking
• Coffee Cups and Gossip
• Out Of The Frying Pan
• Hannah Had A Son
• When Hope Goes
• Ice and Snow/Shelby's Aid
• The Colors Of Paradise
• Digging Stone
• This Wide Woods
• Forgotten Lullaby
• Shoot The Moon
• Opening Act II
• Come Alive Again
• Forest For The Trees
• Wild Bird
• Sunrise
• Shine
• Way Back Home
• Finale.