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’s Department of Music Ushers in the Christmas Season with Festival of Lights Community Joined the Annual Musical Celebration and Official Lighting of the Campus Christmas Tree BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb’s annual program to welcome the Christmas season—Festival of Lights—featured performances by GWU music groups, the reading of the Christmas story and carol singing. Additionally, for the first time in the celebration’s history, the GW Orchestra participated in the […] Office of University Communications | December 5, 2023
News Article Gardner-Webb’s Annual Festival of Lights Begins Celebration of Christmas Season Community Invited to Join the Campus on Nov. 30 to Experience the Sights and Sounds of the Season BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb’s annual program to welcome the Christmas season—Festival of Lights—will be celebrated on Nov. 30, which coincides with the University’s celebration of Founders Day. A beloved campus and community Christmas tradition since 1984, Festival of […] Office of University Communications | November 17, 2023
News Article Gardner-Webb’s Brinkley Amphitheater Hosts Balsam Range and Fireside Collective Award-Winning Bluegrass Groups from Western North Carolina Play on Nov. 18 BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Balsam Range, winner of 13 awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA)—including Entertainer of the Year—will headline the second concert in Brinkley Amphitheater at Gardner-Webb University. Special guest, Fireside Collective, will open the event on Nov. 18. Doors open at 4 […] Office of University Communications | November 12, 2023