Parkway Playhouse presents Her Name Was Frankie: A Frankie Silver Story

A Powerful Appalachian Story Comes to the Stage

Parkway Playhouse presents Her Name Was Frankie: A Frankie Silver Story, running October 2–11, 2026. This compelling new drama explores one of North Carolina’s most infamous historical figures through a bold and thought-provoking theatrical lens. Blending history, mystery, and modern perspective, the production invites audiences to reconsider the stories we think we know.

Revisiting a Historic Legend

Frankie Silver has long been remembered as a notorious North Carolina murderess, her name etched into Appalachian folklore. But what truly happened—and who has shaped the version of events we’ve inherited? This play dives into the layers of myth, rumor, and recorded history that surround her story, asking vital questions about truth and storytelling.

A Writer in Search of Answers

The narrative follows a contemporary author who travels south to research and write a book about Frankie Silver. Expecting to uncover a clear historical account, she instead encounters a patchwork of conflicting narratives. As she interviews locals and digs deeper, she discovers that each version of the tale reveals more about the storyteller than the woman at its center.

Truth, Memory, and Perspective

Her Name Was Frankie examines how communities construct identity and memory. Whose voices are amplified? Whose are silenced? Through sharp dialogue and layered storytelling, the play explores how truth can be shaped by culture, bias, and personal legacy. It is both an intimate character study and a broader reflection on Appalachian history.

Written by Cheyenne Dancy

This evocative production is written by local playwright Cheyenne Dancy, whose work thoughtfully captures the nuance and complexity of regional storytelling. Dancy’s script balances historical intrigue with emotional depth, creating a narrative that resonates far beyond its setting.

Co-Directed by Daniel Moore and Jenny Martin

The production is co-directed by Daniel Moore and Jenny Martin. Their collaborative vision brings clarity and dimension to this layered story, guiding audiences through shifting perspectives with care and intention.

Experience It This October

Performances run October 2–11, 2026, offering a limited opportunity to experience this moving and thought-provoking new work. Join Parkway Playhouse for a powerful exploration of history, identity, and the enduring question: who gets to tell the story? Secure your tickets and discover a fresh perspective on an Appalachian legend.