Virginia Dream Centerstage
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Posted by: Sophie Location: H'burg on Jun 17, 2009 at 11:06 AM
I have heard a lot said about the "old music" that is done on this show and I have also said before that we should be thankful for the classics being revisited. I wonder how many of the people commenting on this fact realize that MANY of the new songs out by the newer artist are remakes of those so called old tunes! Point in fact, Carrie Underwood's last release. You may think you are listening to new songs but in fact they are those "old" ones you are referring to. I am not of "retirement age" at all and still appreciate all the old standards. Thanks again Pony Express and friends.

Posted by: Loman Location: Craigsville on Jun 13, 2009 at 06:44 AM
I really enjoy your show.Good quality entertainment.Keep up the good work.

Posted by: Confused Location: Harrisonburg on Jun 12, 2009 at 05:13 PM
well Seth..the reason our country is so broke is clearly not from everyone attending a local show which in turn goes to support locals and gets money circulating here in the valley rather than spending it elsewhere...like on vacation and seeing a $40 Branson show of the sam quality...I think the show is good for the area and actually the comment you just made about saving your money is why our country is in a hole...we are "saving" our money and all of the local businesses are drying up! everyone always says "there's nothing to do in the valley" and then when talented people try to create something great in the valley the critics start their rants! This is why nothing can ever thrive here! So go ahead and "save" your money..it will be worth nothing when inflation goes through the roof anyway...just wise up and turn on the news!~

Posted by: Emily Location: Staunton on Jun 12, 2009 at 03:42 PM
Hey, Robbie!!! Thanks so much for everything today! I had a great time and can't wait to come back. You're studio is uber cool! That was AWESOME!!! -Emily Henline

Posted by: Brian Location: Fishersville on Jun 12, 2009 at 11:22 AM
I think the music is great.Band does decent job.It's (my opinion) that most of the vocal's on this show are horrible.Don't tell me about Ben "Cooter" Jones,Please you actually think he can sing?I cringe every time he picks up a mic.Find some talented vocalist's and this show would be great!I know there are a few in the valley.

Posted by: Seth Location: Bergton on Jun 11, 2009 at 04:41 PM
Well! Let me see here. Hank Sr. is definitely quality country. The Opposum is definitely quality country. And if I do recall, both were alcoholics. (abundance) There music is QUALITY country classics. So much in comparing old with the new here. Next on the agenda is that no wonder our country is broke. People are supposed to have common sense. Think about this for one second. Why pay the money to see a lawn party band at the theatre whne you can see them at our lawn party or Bridgewater or even Weyers Cave

Posted by: Bubba Location: Marion on Jun 11, 2009 at 10:38 AM
Show is always SOLD OUT! Nuff said!

Posted by: Chris Location: Richmond on Jun 10, 2009 at 11:34 PM
2nd generation member of The Coachmen here. I've enjoyed reading this commentary; both positive and negative. I enjoyed doing this show and am glad there is such interest to generate commentary. I will tell you first hand, this show requires a "load" of work from Robbie/Lisa Meadows and company and no one is in it for any real $$; it is all about the music and giving something back to the Valley. Those chosen as guests seem to be those who have dedicated years to providing quality entertainment in the Valley in that same spirit. Please don't take your desires to hear younger music/artists out on the groups on this show. Being are young guy, I get that, but also being the manager of one of these "older" groups, I know the large demand for original classic country music and enertainment. I've come to realize that over the years and it was something I sort of discounted myself early on. The old saying, "don't knock what you don't understand" is very true sometimes!

Posted by: Skeeter Location: Timberville, VA on Jun 10, 2009 at 05:37 PM
A lot of comments on here have portrayed the fact that the music is out of date, and it is a show for the 60 and older group. I'm here to tell you that the show is family oriented. Everyone is right by saying that Carrier Underwood, or Kenny Chesney isn't starving, and your right, they aren't! What Pony Express is doing is playing good quality country or gospel music. Instead of playing the new age country that has do deal with sex, drugs, and alcohol (in abundance), play the good wholesome music that is pleasing to hear. Everyone wants to know why children do what they do...well has anyone ever thought that maybe it's due to the media, music being a major portion in that? Don't fill children's ears with the crud that comes out of country music these days, play the classics, and keep playing the classics. This coming from someone under 25. I may not like country music, but it's a heck of a lot better than the new age stuff.

Posted by: Liz Location: Mathias WV on Jun 10, 2009 at 09:04 AM
I think it's exciting that Pony Express will once again be playing at our carnival. Everyone loves them because they know exactly what to expect. It's been the same for years back here. I'll bet we'll even hear the crack about the "what do you you get when you mix country and rap". I know that I have been hearing that for at least 10 years. I think what some of the so called "negative" comments on here are simply saying that a little change here and there would be nice. Bring some newer talent on your dream stage. Keep what you have because some do love it. Anybody who thinks this show couldn't be made better, evidently doesn't get out much and knowing where I'm from, I can honestly say that!

Posted by: Concerned Location: Luray on Jun 9, 2009 at 10:20 PM
Wow, who knew that a little local show could cause such anger.

Posted by: Sophie Location: Harrisonburg on Jun 9, 2009 at 03:38 PM
I just love those who sit in judgment of others when they have probably never picked up an instrument and when they open their mouths to sing the cat runs. These musicians are about the most talented I have heard. Each one has 20 plus years of experience behind them. They have opened for such acts as Loretta Lynn, VanZant, and are due to open for Merle Haggard this summer. Not to mention they have been on the Grand Ole Opry TWICE, play with Ben "Cooter" Jones and Jimmy Fortune. I personally love hearing the old standards, groups like this keep them alive and well. It would be a shame to loose the music of our past, music that paved the way for today's standards by the way. If this is not what you want to hear than don't watch the show. Why spend your time "downing" a group that works so hard to entertain those who enjoy this music. By the way, each one of these musicians have full times jobs and still take the time to give to us. I say Thanks a Million and keep up the great work.

Posted by: Penelope Location: Harrisonburg on Jun 9, 2009 at 02:58 PM
Larry & James make some good points there. This band and the individual players have reached some levels of achievement that that most bands will not. I've heard some great musicians and singers that never went anywhere. A lot of people watch this show to see their friends and family perform on there, maybe someone they went to school with. We hear what the radio stations want us to hear and that's all. What's good & what's bad- it's all subjective. For those less educated here subjective means depending on one's personal preference. That's why we have hundreds of channels to choose from. My suggestion- watch the show if you like it. For those less educated- that means learn how to use the remote if you don't like it. Nobody is forcing you to watch and nobody is forcing you to be negative. I suggest you send us a link to a youtube video of you singing so that everyone can critique you online. That "sounds" fun to me ;-)

Posted by: Mark Location: Bridgewater on Jun 9, 2009 at 02:20 PM
I think the positive and negative comments are good James. Just because you are on the bandwagon does not mean that everyone is. I've known this deal for a long time and have been there and done that. I enjoy some parts of this show and others just right down are not good. I watch what I like and I turn what I don't. Simple formula. TV 3 I say kudos to you for putting down both sides of the coin. Let the people talk.That's how we know what people like or dislike. I guess because it goes against the grain of certain peoples opinons that they think it shouldn't be posted. I guess next is communism due to what others don't agree with. If there is anything to be said about the individuals I know them to. Yes there is talent there,but if you go to see the Worx you see a different genre of music but you can't match the success of these guys and the Centerstage crew. Just ask the checkbook. It's all about the connections and the money. Just look at certain forms of music .

Posted by: James Location: Richmond on Jun 9, 2009 at 12:39 PM
Question the minority that continues to visit this website and post their negative comments: Why do you have this site bookmarked?

Posted by: Brian Location: Fishersville on Jun 9, 2009 at 08:06 AM
Good Point Todd! I'm a true music lover in all genres. This show put's me to sleep every Sunday nite!Cover band's are a dime a dozen!Vocals are horrid.RFDTV Please

Posted by: Larry Location: Harrisonburg on Jun 8, 2009 at 04:07 PM
Okay people!! All you people who have always been and will always be on the outside, congratulations. You have made your points. And we as Americans have this right to free speech. Now if you all had any idea where the bear dropped in the buckwheat patch you would be dangerous. Remember what opinons are like.Now, there are some talented people on that stage no doubt about it. Anybody who would even think differently is nothing but wrong. Playing on the Opry and in front of lots of people is an acheivement that most people cant say they have done. Now remember one thing, There was a band in the Charlottesville area that people made out to be GOD. They had number one songs on certain lower level charts,played in Nashville,were close friends with some of Nashvilles biggest stars,and had a motorcoach. Now that group is just like a Kansas song "Dust In The Wind" So you can ooh ahh all you want. But they are at the mercy of the big time artists. They still tried to do Carrie this past week

Posted by: Amy Location: Harrisonburg on Jun 8, 2009 at 01:35 AM
I could also give a little inside scoop on the house band..they have played withthe biggest named artists there are out there..country, gospel, rock, blues, and everything in between...they have played the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and performed in front of over 100,000 people...i think their record shows that they are more than just "plain locals" who dont know what they are doing. They are all extremely talented individuals..and there are younger artist on the show...maybe you just havent given it a chance...but there is something for everyone..maybe not on one given episode but from week to week there is a great amount of diversity...i love it and yes im under 30...but i also can see the talent the show has to offer..I also believe the houseband has the greatest talent of anyone i've heard in this valley and for that matter just about anywhere...

Posted by: Todd Location: Eastern VA on Jun 6, 2009 at 11:19 PM
Forgot to add: If you'd like some perspective, check out RFDTV on any given Saturday night on satellite for some of the regional country music programming. Those programs have made RFD a national success given their down-home simplicity; however, I think most would agree that VA Dreams is just as good, probably better in many respects.

Posted by: Todd Location: Eastern VA on Jun 6, 2009 at 11:08 PM
I'm a Valley native and now live in eastern VA; I saw this show while visiting in the Valley recently. I loved it and now keep up with it via whsv.com. Regarding the negative posts about the show; I am sure the responsible folks here are looking for ways to improve the format; afterall it is just local program that is brand new, and sure, there is opportunity given what it inherently is. However, please know that many of these groups have large followings especially Larry Stevens, The Coachmen, Jimmy Fortune, etc. all very successful in waht they've set out to do. You may call it old music, but knowing your craft and audience is key; many of these groups are the real deal. Who wants to see a Kenny Chesney or Carrie Underwood mimic? I'll go to Kings Dominion for that. The negative comments I've read here are shallow. The true music lover should see that, old or new.

Posted by: James Location: Richmond on Jun 5, 2009 at 03:28 PM
Folks, listen to me a minute. This show not for everybody, it is not intended to please all. Couldn't please all if that were the intent. I know everyone of the people on this show. None of them are doing it for the money. Every one of these people are successful business men. None of them are doing it because they think they are going to be the next big recording artist, none of them are doing it because they want to be seen on TV. At least one guy on that stage has seen more super stars from the back side than all the shows you have attended combined. The people in this show are just down to earth, Christian everyday folks doing what they love to do most, play music with one another. They are on this show because the man paying all the bills ask them play. That’s all. If you don’t like what is being broadcast or, if your mad because they won’t let you on the show, go start your own show.

Posted by: Ruth Location: Mt Jackson on Jun 2, 2009 at 12:21 PM
I would like to let the people know that I enjoy this local talent and show on our home network. Yes! I am in my late 60's and I enjoy the memories that come back to me with the Gospel and Bluegrass music. The old country with Lisa and her band as well. There is nothing wrong with this show, even if they were to have a wholesome evening catered to the older crowd.

Posted by: Jacob Location: Georiga on Jun 2, 2009 at 12:03 PM
I was recently visiting my parents and I happen to see this show on TV. Where Im from there are bands that do very well and bands that do not. The ones that do not do well are 10 times better than this group. Dont get me wrong the Bass,Guitar,and Keys are talented but after that sorry. Leslie, the people who dont agree with your agenda are not trying to stir things. They are just saying what they see . Maybe you should start a talent scout business. If you like old stuff it is somewhat cool. But lets face it. You take the high profiles and money away from the people on this show and all you get is bands that simply play what you call up here lawn parties. There is no fire in this show except for some of the Bluegrass pickers,and the 3 I listed earlier. This is something geared for a retirement village in the Hills. Sue is right Chesney,Urban and Underwood are not starving by any means. You dont have to like it,but the truth is the truth rather you agree or not.

Posted by: Sue Location: Broadway on Jun 2, 2009 at 09:19 AM
Leslie, aren't comments supposed to be a persons true feelings on something? What, because I don't agree that this is something special,then I shouldn't comment? Come on now...tell me what age group does this show entertain? Certainly not people between 30 & 50! If this is a "family oriented" show, then why is is the music directed at the 60 age group? My children would rather sleep than watch this show. I do not disagree you, today's country is no longer depressing like that of old. However,the new artists are making a pretty good living at it. I haven't heard of any of them starving yet. By the way,thank you Joe, I'm glad that I'm not alone in this.

Posted by: Joe Location: Timberville on May 30, 2009 at 05:19 PM
Hey Sue I agree with you! This is a real snore fest! The House Band Pony Express is Ok, But the Vocals OMG! Is everyone in the audience over the age of 70. Come on guys there is real talent in the valley.Get them on your Dream Stage!Rock Out W/Your

Posted by: Leslie Location: Staunton on May 30, 2009 at 04:20 PM
Well, Sue from Broadway, sounds like you just want to post negativity to start debate. When you compare the wasteland on the rest of t.v. I think it is refreshing to see and hear local talent...and what current material are you speaking of? New country is nothing more than tired rock. Chill and enjoy it or go watch American Idol.

Posted by: Sue Location: Broadway on May 28, 2009 at 04:40 PM
I already know you won't post it, but I just can't keep holding back. What good is a comment section if you only post good comments? I keep waiting to see just one semi-negative comment. Just as I thought, can't take the heat. Virginia Dreams is nothing more than a nightmare. Most of the talent is washed and need to find current material to sing. Oh,never mind - if it's not done well, then don't bother.

Posted by: sharon Location: staunton on May 26, 2009 at 07:11 PM
hey i would like for yal to have a all southern gospel night.and would like to see the coachmen and the deans. there is nothing like good old gospel music that has a message to the heart

Posted by: Eddie M Location: Harrisonburg on May 21, 2009 at 12:24 AM
High Ground....all you can say is WOW! These guys are pros

Posted by: Beth Location: Fulks Run on May 17, 2009 at 10:21 AM
When are you going to update this website? I want to see more of the bluegrass band, High Ground.

Posted by: Ann Location: Fredricksburg on May 9, 2009 at 09:22 PM
I agree with Lola...Soul Patrol is the best hidden secret in the valley!! more please! :)

Posted by: Jack Location: Broadway on May 7, 2009 at 09:42 AM
VA Dreams is something that I really look forward to on Sunday nights. It's nice that we can enjoy local talent. How would other locals get their time on the dream stage?

Posted by: FAYE HAYES Location: RINGGOLD, VA. 24586 on May 2, 2009 at 11:08 AM
YES! You go WILLIE love that PIANO

Posted by: Angela Location: Rockingham County on Apr 13, 2009 at 12:04 PM
I love this show. Go NATHAN NEFF!! I was wondering how to you get on this show, I have someone interested. I agree Betty...not long enough. :)

Posted by: Lynne Location: Stuarts Draft, VA on Mar 30, 2009 at 09:09 PM
How do local acts get featured on this program? We're a local band, and saw the commercial that stated you also feature rock bands. Is this true??

Posted by: Lola Location: Nashville on Mar 29, 2009 at 08:49 AM
Soul Patrol Rocks!!! Definitely want to see more of them!!!

Posted by: betty Location: elkton on Mar 17, 2009 at 11:16 AM
Half hour not long enough!!

Posted by: Roger Location: Staunton on Mar 1, 2009 at 12:17 AM
Oak Grove Choir-what a blessing it is to be a part of this choir. We sound great!! Choir Member-Roger

Posted by: Leslie Location: Staunton on Feb 21, 2009 at 10:20 PM
William "88 fingers" Hayes ROCKS the piano...AWESOME

Posted by: Dana Location: Georgia on Feb 7, 2009 at 04:49 PM
Love The Deanes, really enjoyed the song The Rock. Also that baby showed at the end is adorable!!! God Bless!!

Posted by: Tammy Location: Shenandoah on Jan 24, 2009 at 05:54 AM
I hope there is more of The Deanes shown- they are a true inspiration!