I sat in the spacious Ocean State Theatre Company with producing artistic director Amiee Turner as stage hands were climbing into the rafters to set up lights for the June 4 opening of “Always…Patsy Cline,” while Erin McCracken and Lulu Lloyd were rehearsing around the grand piano in the lobby. Turner was excited about the show.

“While there are 27 songs in the production,” she said, “this is not a musical revue. This is an intimate story about two women, singer Patsy Cline and her biggest fan, Louise Seger, and their friendship over many years. It’s about as musical as a play can get.”

Patsy corresponded over the years with Louise and always signed her letters “Love Always, Patsy Cline.” The play is about friendship, and the storyteller must be effective.

“[OSTC] audiences will be familiar with the two actresses. Both appeared in ‘Winter Wonderettes.’ Erin was Tracy in ‘Hairspray’ at Theatre-by-the-Sea, and Lulu played Judy in “9 to 5.’

“Patsy Cline was truly the first crossover artist. ‘Crazy’ was her first pop hit. She sang gospel, rock and roll and country. Her story is very powerful and dramatic and, unfortunately, was cut short at the height of her success.”

While the production is usually a two-person show, Turner has added two backup singers, graduates of Rhode Island College, plus three musicians who will be on stage. The paddle-steel guitar player played in the original show.

“We are the only theatre in Rhode Island whose mission is to mix professional New York actors with local talent. There is real joy in that mix. Everyone benefits,” she added.

“Not knowing if we would attract an audience in Warwick during the summer, we decided to dip our toe in the water and present a single musical last year. Our production of ‘Legally Blonde’ ended up being very well received and patrons were disappointed that we weren’t presenting a second production, so this year we decided to do two contrasting musicals.”

“Always…Patsy Cline” will be presented June 4-22, followed by the popular Broadway musical, “Guys and Dolls,” July 9-27.

“We are thrilled with the large audience we get from Warwick and the support we get from the city and surrounding businesses. Nearby Wethersfield Commons residents are the best.”

For reservations call 921-6800 or go online at www.oceanstatetheatre.org. Tickets are $39-$54, with rush tickets at $30 available one hour before the performance if available.