HeRo Productions Readies Miz Caraway

Owners: Nancy Hendricks and Grady Jim Robinson

Address: 209 Trent St., Fayetteville 72701

Phone: (479) 575-9363

Hours: by appointment only

Startup date: Aug. 1

Web site: www.mizcaraway.com

In March, Nancy Hendricks, Grady Jim Robinson and a silent partner will open the first production of their professional theater company, HeRo Productions. The inaugural show, a comedy called Miz Caraway and the Kingfish, tells the story of how Arkansans made Hattie Caraway America’s first female Senator elected to a full term.

Hendricks wouldn’t name the company’s silent partner, who also produces the shows. Hendricks and Robinson wrote the play, and they will star as the only two characters in the show. The company’s title stems from combining Hendricks and Robinson’s last names.

Miz Caraway and the Kingfish opens March 1 in Caraway’s hometown, Jonesboro. The tour includes Little Rock, Russellville and the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville. Washington, D.C., New York and London performances are also in the works.

Rehearsals take place in Hendricks’ home, which is equipped with recording equipment, an office and a stage. The team outsourced a marketing director, musicians and technical support. She estimated HeRo Productions has spent nearly $50,000 to launch the first show, including the cost of marketing and insurance.