news-category: Performing Arts Gardner-Webb’s Department of Theatre Arts Produces Tony Award-Winning Play By Office of University Communications On October 2, 2023 ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’ set for Oct. 6-8 in Dover Theatre By Sierra Talbert, ’24, Intern for University Communications BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s Department of Theatre Arts presents “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” in Dover Theatre on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 6-7, at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Oct. 8, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets for the play can be purchased electronically here. The Tony award-winning play is based on the novel by Mark Haddon and adapted by Simon Stephens. The story focuses on 15-year-old Christopher, who is exceptional at mathematics but has high-functioning autism and difficulty interpreting everyday life. He is accused of killing his neighbor’s dog, so he must solve the mystery. His detective work, which is prohibited by his father, takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world. Dr. Christopher Nelson, professor and chair of the Department of Theatre Arts and the play’s director, is curious to see how the audience will react to the storyline. He hopes they follow along and develop a sense of care for Christopher throughout his journey as he solves the mystery. Nelson was encouraged by a friend to see the play when it was on Broadway. “The young man who played it was extraordinary; the cast was really good, the scenic design was amazing … it was really, really, really good,” he praised. Nelson immediately added “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” to his bucket list of play ideas for GWU and decided to check it off this semester. After producing simple shows last academic year, he is ready for the challenge this play brings him and the cast members. He is excited to add more tech, visuals, and larger sets to the show and truly bring it to life for the audience. Freshman cast member, Justin Roan, plays five roles during the production. “It has a very captivating story, because there are a lot of twists in the story,” Roan said. “Some twists you’ll see coming and some you won’t.” Nelson said production plans are in place for two shows in the 2024 Spring semester. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” Cast List Christopher – Shawn Hougas Siobhan – Emily Hopson Ed – Marshall Bragdon-Townsend Judy – Elie Brinson Mrs. Alexander/Posh Woman/Voice Six – Roman Cotty Mrs. Shears/Mrs. Gascoyne/Voice One/Woman on Train/Woman on Heath/Shopkeeper – Savannah Snider Roger (Mr. Shears)/Duty Sergeant/Voice Two/Mr. Wise/Man Behind Counter/Drunk One – Cyrus Zarif Policeman 1/Mr. Thompson/Voice Three/Drunk Two/Man with Socks/London Policeman – Justin Roan No. 40/Voice Five/Lady in Street/Information/Punk Girl – Eva Sliker Reverend Peters/Uncle Terry/Voice Four/Station Policeman/Station Guard – Jacob White Writer Sierra Talbert is a communications major with a concentration in public relations. Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.
News Article Gardner-Webb Senior Connor Settlemyre Performs with National Honor Band Percussionist is First Student Chosen from GWU to Participate in Program Sponsored by College Band Directors National Association BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As Gardner-Webb University senior Connor Settlemyre waited to perform with some of the best musicians from around the country, he looked up to see members of the audience seated directly above the stage, anticipating the […] Office of University Communications | April 3, 2025
News Article Spring Concert Includes Gardner-Webb Orchestra and Greensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra Program on April 15 Features Some of the Best Young Musicians in the State BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The 50-member Greensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra (GSYO) will join the Gardner-Webb University Orchestra for a performance on April 15 at 7 p.m. in Dover Theater. They will perform individually and together the works of Resphighi, Mussorgsky, Ravel, and Sibelius. […] Office of University Communications | March 27, 2025
News Article Gardner-Webb Senior Connor Settlemyre Selected to Participate in National Band Percussionist is First Student Chosen from GWU to Perform with 124 Student Musicians from Across the Country BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University senior Connor Settlemyre, of Rutherfordton, N.C., has been selected to perform for the National Small Band Programs Intercollegiate Band. He is the first student from GWU to be selected for this honor. The concert, […] Office of University Communications | March 25, 2025