Summertime in Tullahoma means a couple of things — school is out, the pool is open, and South Jackson Goes Country (SJGC) will take place in August. It’s a local three-day event that folks mark their calendar by, families schedule vacations around, and some come from afar to attend.
This annual musical tradition has been taking place for nearly half a century with no end in sight, thanks to a dedicated matriarch, her devoted crew, and locals who can’t seem to get enough of the heart-warming local event, SJGC.
From the French Riviera to Jackson Street
During a meeting in 1979 for the newly opened South Jackson Civic Center, a willing hand shot up when the question of raising money for the center arose. That hand belonged to a young, vibrant, talented woman, Peggy Burton. Burton had performed around the world singing and directing; with her experience, she knew how to bring a crowd out.
“I suggested a country show,” explained Burton. “The idea came from my time in Europe. I was touring with folk singers and dancers, and we would go to these very large venues where there were free shows. Thousands of people would be on the French Riviera, and I noticed that their folk music was very country. People loved it. Thinking about that, I thought it would be great to bring something similar to Tullahoma.”
The first year for SJGC was a success, according to Burton. Since the first show, SJGC has continued to grow in popularity while making a name for itself with its unique programming.
Funny Commercials and Hilarious Characters
Today, SJGC is a three-day event that contains a warm-up show, a main show, and commercials.
While it may seem odd that commercials are a big deal, Burton will quickly tell you that it’s one of the most beloved parts of the show. Commercials are written by Burton and long-time contributors Lynn Sebourn and Melissa Shuran, just to name a few that have helped over the years. The commercials are humorous and have claimed their own place in the show.
“The first commercial came after a trip years ago to a friend of mine’s store,” explained Burton. “When I started driving home, a tune came into my head about his shop. I went back and sang it to him and then asked if he would like to buy it. Thankfully he said yes, and he’s done it ever since. I must credit him for hanging in there and being the first to help.”
Burton asked $50 for that first commercial. Today, the show’s commercials have become so popular they fetch around $350 each, with each advertiser claiming their spot as early as possible.
The show has also created its beloved characters, including Sadie Gruesome, played by Deb Rackley; Earnestine, played by Mellisa Shuran; and Mike Snead as Stroop Man.
“They all have been with us so long and are fun to watch; we can’t stand to think about doing the show without them,” said Burton.
The Show Will Go On
Now in her 44th year, Burton has begun to look to the future of the beloved show. She had brought on three local women who had grown up with the performance and Burton as a mentor.
Samantha Waters is a long-time performer with SJGC who coordinates the main show, with Burton stepping in to consult when needed.
“Jacqueline, Martha, and I started talking about creating a trio to help tackle the show and help Peggy’s legacy continue within the community,” she explained. “It takes an army to tackle this massive production she envisioned and brought to the community. Peggy was grooming us for years, and when we mentioned tackling the show as a unit, she loved the idea and kept grooming us as the amazing advisor that she is!”
Waters said seeing those dedicated to the show return each year is inspirational.
“Seeing the performers, crew, and audience return year after year is truly inspirational,” she said. “It’s rare to have an event that brings people back each year. Peggy’s ‘country show’ has created a long-lasting fundraiser to help the arts survive and has fostered a following of cast, crew, and audience that can’t wait for the next production. It is a time filled with laughter, family fun, and talent.”
As an 8-year-old, Jacquline Painter joined the show to perform with friends. She quickly became hooked and has been a part of it since.
“It’s a family unit, and we get to perform and do something we love,” said Painter. “We all come together and put this crazy show together. It’s all about doing something as a family and for the community.”
Painter’s focus is the show’s choreography, and she aids where she is needed. She said the show benefits the entire community, especially children.
“We need to support the arts and our community. The children, especially those who are involved in it, get so much out of it. I know just from my teaching experience that kids get so much from the arts that people don’t realize it.”
Coordinating SJGC’s warm-up show is Martha Hood. The show’s warm-up portion allows younger singers to get acclimated to performing in front of the audience.
“Sometimes younger kids who really want to sing and perform are not ready for a live band,” said Hood. “The warm-up allows them to get that experience. People are coming and getting a seat while they are performing. So people are watching, but it’s not as much pressure.”
Hood said a part of the show’s family brings her back each year.
“I love coming back and seeing everybody every year,” she said. “Some adults in the show have watched me grow, and now I have my children. There are also the children I get to work with and see grow, which is truly bittersweet. The sense of family is definitely my favorite part.” GN
