Stu Huggens is a busy man. In addition to performing locally as a solo-acoustic act, Huggens, the founder and lead-singer of the well-known Susquehanna River Band has added some new items to his resume. The latest endeavors for Huggens include a new CD and live performances with his daughter, Keri Lynn (pictured above), and a featured role in a live stage show currently playing at Lancaster's American Music Theatre.

"Its different, that's for sure," Huggens replies when asked how being in a stage play compares to playing on stage. In his first theater performance, Huggens leads a talented cast in the AMT's production of "Country Jukebox." The show is described as a journey through real country music including all the different styles Ð bluegrass, gospel, rockabilly Ð that make up the genre. The show features classic country hits as well as new songs performed by a talented cast including many up-and-coming stars of country music as well as a musical comedian who serves as the show's narrator.

Originally, Huggens was hired as a supporting musician, playing acoustic guitar in the backup band; however, after rehearsals began, director Ted Swindley decided to expand Huggens' role. The singer was not only given a speaking part, but steps into the spotlight to perform one of his own songs, "When Elvis Gives Another Cadillac Away," which he co-wrote with Karl Gambler and Mike Wolpert.

In summing up his experience on stage Huggens says, "It's a lot of fun and it's been getting great reviews. [There is a] great cast and John Bressler, the comedian...he gets the crowd going."

Huggens' other new venture involves a new CD, a new band, and a new vocal partner Ð his daughter, Keri Lynn. Performing with his teenage daughter is another first for Huggens. "We've sat around at home and sang, but this is the first time that we have actually done shows and stuff together." he explains. The pairing originated in a Nashville studio with the elder Huggens recording demos. He asked his daughter to sing some harmony backups and it went over very well. The pair has since recorded a CD and has played some shows together.

"Right now there are a lot of family acts that are in country music, so we thought, well, let's give it a shot and see what happens," says Huggens. Touring under the obvious moniker of Stu and Keri Lynn Huggens, the duo is part of a new seven-piece band including: Dean Clemmer (pedal-steel guitar), Mike Fisher (lead guitar), Chris DeVitry (guitar), Mike Bitts (bass) and Jeff Stoner (drums).

So what does the future hold for Stu Huggens? The veteran performer is keeping his options open. Currently, Huggens is writing songs and working with publishers in hopes of securing a record deal. He will be performing through the end of October at the American Music Theatre. He has several October dates booked as a solo acoustic act. He is performing in friend Mike Fisher's band, the Rockin' Billy Bobs, and is booking future dates for the new Stu and Keri Lynn show. And oh, yeah, he wouldn't mind another stage show. "Yes, I would like to do it again," he says, "in the right play."