A Prairie Home Companion 2006
Directed by
Robert Altman
Made by
Picturehouse Entertainment
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of A Prairie Home Companion (2006). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In Saint Paul, Minnesota, the cherished live radio variety show A Prairie Home Companion is gearing up for what the audience remains blissfully unaware is its final performance. The new parent company of the radio station has set the Fitzgerald Theater, its beloved home, for demolition, appointing “the Axeman” to deliver the judgment on the show’s fate.
Amidst a series of musical performances, the cast members, under the keen watch of PI Guy Noir, reminisce and interact. Among them are the melodious Johnson Girls, featuring Yolanda, her sister Rhonda, and her daughter Lola (played by Lindsay Lohan). The cowboy duo, Dusty and Lefty, charmingly entertain the audience. The team also includes the expectant PA Molly (played by Maya Rudolph), along with the Stage Manager, Makeup Lady, and Sound Effects Man—who are portrayed by real Radio Acting Co. members Tim Russell, Sue Scott, and Tom Keith—alongside the show’s creator and host, Garrison Keillor, affectionately referred to as “GK.”
An intriguing twist arises with the appearance of a mystical figure called the “Dangerous Woman” (Virginia Madsen), later revealed to be Lois Peterson—an avid listener who tragically passed away in a car accident while tuned into a previous broadcast. Now returned in celestial form as the angel Asphodel, she brings solace to the cast and crew as they come to terms with the show’s conclusion and mourning the backstage death of the elderly Chuck Akers (L. Q. Jones).
The Axeman (Tommy Lee Jones) soon makes his presence felt, swiftly deeming the show too antiquated to continue airing. In an unexpected turn of events, Asphodel guides him out of the theater towards an untimely fate, yet the cancellation of the beloved show remains firm.
Years down the line, the former cast gathers once more at Mickey’s Diner with aspirations for a farewell tour. Their vibrant conversation halts as Asphodel makes an enchanting entrance into the diner, adding a hint of nostalgia to their reunion.
Timeline
Track the key events of A Prairie Home Companion (2006) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Final Performance Announcement
The cast of the beloved radio variety show, A Prairie Home Companion, prepares for what will unknowingly be their last performance. Little do they know that the show is facing imminent cancellation due to the station's new parent company deciding to demolish the Fitzgerald Theater.
Musical Performances Begin
As the final show kicks off, the audience enjoys a series of captivating musical performances by the cast. Among the acts, the Johnson Girls, featuring Yolanda, Rhonda, and Lola, bring their melodious talents to the stage, delighting the listeners.
The Cowboy Duo Entertains
Fans are treated to the charming performance of the cowboy duo, Dusty and Lefty. Their lively act not only captures the hearts of the audience but also lifts the spirits of the cast amidst the impending closure of their show.
Cast Reflects on the Past
Various cast members, including PI Guy Noir and the expectant PA Molly, reminisce about the rich history and shared memories of A Prairie Home Companion. Amidst laughter and nostalgia, they confront the reality that their beloved show is coming to an end.
Appearance of the Dangerous Woman
An enigmatic figure known as the Dangerous Woman makes her way onto the stage, shrouded in mystery. This character, later revealed to be the deceased Lois Peterson, brings a message of comfort and closure to the cast and crew.
Chuck Akers' Backstage Death
The cast grapples with the emotional weight of mourning the recent death of their elderly friend and colleague, Chuck Akers. This loss serves as a poignant reminder of their shared journey and the fleeting nature of their time together.
The Axeman's Arrival
The foreboding figure known as the Axeman finally arrives at the theater, armed with the grim news that the show is too outdated to continue. Tension rises as the cast prepares to face the judgment that could seal their fate.
Asphodel's Intervention
Asphodel, the angelic version of the Dangerous Woman, steps in to confront the Axeman. Her appearance adds a mystical twist to the proceedings, as she attempts to guide him away from making a hasty decision about the show.
Show is Officially Canceled
Despite Asphodel's efforts to sway the Axeman, the cancellation of A Prairie Home Companion is confirmed. The news devastates the cast, who must come to grips with the end of an era in their lives.
Reunion at Mickey's Diner
Years later, the former cast members gather at Mickey's Diner to reminisce about their time on the show. During their lively discussion, they share hopes for a potential farewell tour, reigniting their passion for performance.
Asphodel Appears Again
Just as their conversation flows with laughter and memories, Asphodel reenters their lives with an ethereal presence. Her arrival fills the diner with a sense of nostalgia, reminding everyone of the enduring impact of their show.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring A Prairie Home Companion (2006) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Yolanda (Meryl Streep)
Yolanda is a vibrant member of the Johnson Girls, full of charm and musical talent. She shares a close bond with her sister Rhonda and her daughter Lola, representing family ties in the entertainment industry. Her character embodies both joy and the weight of impending loss.
Rhonda (Lily Tomlin)
Rhonda is the sister of Yolanda in the Johnson Girls, bringing wit and humor to the ensemble. She complements her sister's talents with her own distinctive flair, showcasing the power of collaboration. Rhonda's disposition reflects the bittersweet nature of the show's finality.
Dusty (Woody Harrelson)
Dusty is a charismatic cowboy performer who, along with Lefty, captivates the audience during the show's moments. His charm and enthusiasm reflect the jovial spirit of the show, even as it faces termination. His character signifies the importance of entertainment in coping with hard times.
Lefty (John C. Reilly)
Lefty, the partner of Dusty, embodies the essence of spirited camaraderie and humor. Together, they provide much-needed levity in the face of the show's pending cancellation. Lefty's engaging personality draws audiences into the charm of the variety show.
Garrison Keillor
Garrison Keillor, as himself, is the heart and soul of the show, guiding the crew through their emotional turmoil. His character represents the creator's love for storytelling and the deep connection with his audience. He faces the challenging task of saying goodbye to a lifelong passion.
Setting
Uncover the settings of A Prairie Home Companion (2006), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The narrative centers around the final performance of a long-standing radio show, reflecting on themes of nostalgia and farewell. The characters, amid musical acts, grapple with the changing times that render such shows obsolete. This juxtaposition highlights a cultural shift in entertainment and society.
Location
Saint Paul, Minnesota, Fitzgerald Theater
Saint Paul, Minnesota is the vibrant capital known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The Fitzgerald Theater, a beloved venue, has hosted a variety of performances and is significant for its role as the home of A Prairie Home Companion. Unfortunately, it faces demolition, marking the end of an era for the cherished radio show.
Themes
Explore the core themes of A Prairie Home Companion (2006). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
🎤
Nostalgia
Nostalgia permeates the film as characters reminisce about their experiences on the show. The impending end of A Prairie Home Companion evokes feelings of longing for the simplicity of past performances. It showcases the impact of time on cherished memories and relationships.
💔
Loss
The theme of loss is significant throughout the movie, particularly with the death of Chuck Akers and the show's cancellation. Characters cope with their grief, both for a companion lost and the end of a beloved show. The mystical presence of Asphodel emphasizes the need for closure and acceptance.
🌟
Change
Change is a crucial theme, as the show faces the realities of modernization and its decline in relevance. The arrival of 'the Axeman' symbolizes the harsh reality of progress. Characters must navigate their evolving identities while clinging to the legacy of their past.
Featured on this page
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2025 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.