Instead of dragging the family to a movie that may contain unwelcome surprises for the younger set, take a trip to the Opry. The Louisiana Opry is coming to Covington, promising a country good time appropriate for the entire family.

Pat Varley, creator and producer of the Opry, has been producing shows in Texas and Denham Springs for many years. She has moved the Opry to Covington because she feels there is an audience in the area that will appreciate what the show has to offer.

She moved the show from Denham Springs, where it was known as the Lakeside Opry, when costs to produce the show kept rising.

(Use arrows above to view more photos)

This show is not meant to compete with the Abita Opry, said Varley. In fact, the shows are on different weekends and have links to each other’s Web sites. One big difference, however, is Varley’s shows are all country and gospel, or a combination of the two. No bluegrass or jazz, here — just pure country, she said.

The shows are themed each month. This Saturday, the show will feature country legends’ music, the classics, from 1970-1999. Performers vary in age, and one reason she wanted to bring the show to Covington is to foster talent she believes exists in the area.

To audition for the show, call Varley at (225) 667-6839. Auditions are held the day of the show, she said. The show is produced according to Nashville professional-type quality.

This month’s featured performer is Lyn Brossette, who grew up in the Louisiana Children’s Home and in foster homes. Now married with three children, she began her Opry career by singing some of Patsy Cline’s hits.

Other performers include Kim Ellzey from Livingston Parish and Barry Corkern of Zachary. Varley is also one of the performers and began singing at Oprys when she was 28.

The show has a format similar to the Grand Ole Opry. There is nothing offensive in the lyrics or the jokes, and the entire family can enjoy a evening out together. The atmosphere of the show is Christian country. No alcohol is served, and there is no dancing or smoking, either.

The performance will take place at the Fuhrmann Auditorium in the Greater Covington Center. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 4-11. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m.