The Bendigo born-and-bred singer is starring in Always… Patsy Cline – a musical play that follows the life of legendary country singer Patsy Cline.

Conway said she grew up in Kangaroo Flat and Maiden Gully before moving to Melbourne aged 19.

“I haven't performed in Bendigo for years. The last time was the Christmas carols about four or five years ago,” she said.

“And I have never been to Ulumbarra. This was a jail when I was at school. I remember the prisoners used to be out doing gardening. When I left Bendigo it was nothing like a theatre.”

Always… Patsy Cline is a true story that follows the friendship between Cine a a fan from Houston names Louise Seger.

Cline and Seger corresponded until Cline’s death in a plane crash in 1963 aged 30.

“It’s the story of Patsy meeting this massive fan. They hit it off and keep in touch through letters,” Conway said.

“The story is told through the letters and there is a lot of comedy in it. Mandy who plays Louise is an absolute hoot.”

Conway who always thought she would be a country music artist has enjoyed the challenge of taking on a theatrical role.

“This show is a bit different for me. I love theatre but it is not something I thought I would go into as a country music artist who was writing albums and singing at festivals,” she said.

“It has been amazing but one of the most challenging things I've done in my career. 

“It was an intense few months learning about Patsy. She's a strong person and but she had a tragic life but she was always so happy and positive.

“She was also quite sassy, which I love. She stood up for herself as a woman in a man's world and paved the way, not only for women in country music, but women in general.” 

The show features 27 of Cline’s hits including Crazy, I Fall to Pieces, Sweet Dreams and Walking After Midnight.

“Dad used to play a lot of old-style country music including Patsy Cline,” Conway said.

“So I learned a lot about Patsy when I was young but didn't know half the things I know now from looking her up.”

Conway is also now finding more time to write for herself.

“The show is more spread out now, which means I have been able to write some songs and do other little bits and pieces,” she said. 

Always… Patsy Cline stars Bendigo’s Courtney Conway and is on at the Ulumbarra Theatre on June 21. Visit www.thecapital.com.au/Whats_On for more details.