From ‘The Sweet Life’ to 250 Stories: Tri-County Mystery Meets Expands Appalachian Storytelling Across Kentucky

Tri-County Mystery Meets (TCMM) continues to grow its presence across Kentucky by doing what it does best: turning real stories into meaningful theatre.
That work has been building over time. Through a recent grant from the Central Appalachian Network (CAN), TCMM launched a focused storytelling initiative centered on resilience—collecting and sharing the lived experiences of individuals impacted by the devastating tornado in London, Kentucky, along with other deeply personal stories of strength, survival, and community support.
“That project really changed us,” said TCMM founder and playwright Cat Rhoden Goguen. “We weren’t just performing anymore—we were listening. We were sitting with people’s real experiences and honoring them on stage. That became the foundation of everything we’re doing now.”
That foundation has led directly into the company’s latest success: The Sweet Life: The Story of Ruth Hunt, an original play written by Goguen that explores the life and legacy of the Kentucky candy maker.
The production made its world premiere at GRAC (Gateway Regional Arts Center) in Mt. Sterling, where it was introduced as part of a competitive opportunity awarded to Goguen. The show blends history, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, capturing both Ruth Hunt’s entrepreneurial achievements and her personal journey.
“This story is deeply rooted in Kentucky,” Goguen said. “Ruth Hunt represents resilience in a different way—through innovation, perseverance, and legacy.”
Following its successful world premiere, the production is now moving forward with a performance at Actors Theatre of Louisville—marking a significant step forward for both the play and the company.
“To see this piece grow from its world premiere at GRAC to being presented at Actors Theatre of Louisville is incredibly meaningful,” Goguen said. “It shows that stories from our region resonate far beyond where they begin.”

A Turning Point for TCMM
For Tri-County Mystery Meets, The Sweet Life represents more than a single production—it marks a turning point.
“This project elevated us,” Goguen said. “It challenged us to dig deeper into research, storytelling, and honoring real people and their legacies. It pushed us to the next level.”
The upcoming April 11 performance at the Knox County Extension Office has already sold out—an early indicator of the show’s strong community support and growing audience base.

Cast Brings Story to Life
The production also highlights a blend of new and returning talent within TCMM. Corri Stephens will make her debut with Tri-County Mystery Meets in the lead role of Ruth Hunt. Lisa Honeycutt portrays Emily Tilghman Hunt Peck, Ruth’s daughter, who carried the family’s candy-making legacy forward. The show also features a barbershop quartet, adding musical texture and period charm.

Grant Supports New 250th Celebration Projects
Building on that momentum, TCMM has been awarded a grant supporting a series of community-based storytelling projects tied to America’s 250th anniversary.
“We’re incredibly honored to be a grant recipient,” Goguen said. “This allows us to go into our communities, listen, and create theatre that reflects the people who live here.”

Stories Collected, Stories Shared
The October show, It Happened in the Holler, will explore Appalachian folklore and mysterious encounters, while December’s Appalachian Christmas will feature regional holiday memories and original music by Jonathan Wyatt. Developing Artists Across Disciplines
“We’re not just producing shows—we’re developing artists,” Goguen said. “We want to create opportunities for people to grow creatively.”

Continuing a Mission Through Story
By combining theatre with authentic community voices, TCMM is ensuring those stories are preserved and shared as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
“We’ve seen what happens when people feel heard,” Goguen said. “It brings people together. It reminds us that our stories matter.”