After more than a decade of dedication, tears, and unwavering passion, Valerie Smith’s groundbreaking musical narrative Maggie’s Journal will make its live stage debut in two special performances at the historic Patsy Cline Theater at Handley High School in Winchester, Virginia. Proceeds from these performances will support the Winchester Education Foundation’s Community Comfort Campaign to provide new seating and
carpet in the Patsy Cline Theater.
The performances will take place on:
• Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 7:00 PM EDT
• Sunday, August 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Valerie Smith and her live acoustic band will bring to life the remarkable true story of her great-grandmother, Margaret Attebury Brooks-McCamis, through a powerful blend of original songs and spoken-word narration drawn directly from Maggie’s 19th-century journal. Valerie Smith is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, producer, and playwright known for her authentic voice in bluegrass, Americana, and roots music. With
a career spanning decades, she continues to create work that connects generations through powerful storytelling and musical excellence.
The concert-style musical weaves traditional American acoustic music, bluegrass, and Americana roots with raw, emotional storytelling — revealing a tale of resilience, hardship, love, and triumph set against the backdrop of post-Civil War rural Missouri.
The intimate performances will offer audiences a rare opportunity to experience this deeply personal work in the very venue named after one of country music’s most iconic voices. Tickets are $35 and available now at thevaleriesmith.com.
© Winchester Education Foundation