Virginia Hughes
Peggy Goes Straw Hat
"Peggy Goes Straw Hat" by Virginia Hughes is a novel written in the early 1960s. The story focuses on Peggy Lane, an aspiring actress who takes on the role of ingenue in a summer stock theatrical company in the picturesque Adirondack Mountains. The narrative captures her excitement, challenges, and experiences as she settles into her role and navigates the dynamics of a small-town theater community. The beginning of the novel introduces Peggy's arrival in Lake Kenabeek, where she feels the thrill of starting her first summer theater job after landing the part solely on her merit. She meets Michael Miller, a local apprentice with a familial connection to the theater, and quickly forms friendships with fellow actors, such as Rita Stevens, who eagerly welcomes her. As Peggy settles into her accommodations and interacts with her new colleagues, her initial nerves transform into determination. The stage is set for a journey filled with camaraderie, hard work, and the pursuit of artistic success as they prepare for their opening night amidst unexpected challenges.