Magic, Mayhem, and Underdogs Take the Stage in ‘Puffs’ at Gardner-Webb University on March 20-22 and 24

A Fast‑Paced Comedic Spoof Brings Humor, Heart, and a Fresh Perspective to a World of Wizards

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb University Theatre will present magic and mayhem in its production of “Puffs,” on March 20, 21, and 24 at 7:30 p.m. and March 22 at 2:30 p.m. in Dover Theatre. The stage play written by Matt Cox follows the story of three average students who are trying to survive seven unpredictable years at a school where chaos is part of the lesson plan.

Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for students and seniors; and free for Gardner-Webb students, faculty and staff.

“Puffs” shines a light on the underdogs, who often get overlooked but bring plenty of heart, humor, and determination to their magical education.

“The play is a spoof on the books and movies surrounding a certain school for magic,” described Dr. Christopher Nelson, associate professor of theater. “It’s told from the standpoint of the students in the play known as ‘Puffs,’ which is the sort of forgotten house in the books and movies. It’s a very fast‑paced comedic play that both honors and spoofs the series.”

The play blends quick‑fire comedy with sincere moments, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved fantasy world. It celebrates the students who don’t usually take center stage and reminds us that even the most underestimated characters can discover their own version of heroism.

The cast includes:

• Callie Keller, a freshman theater major, plays the narrator, Susie, and others.
• David Vinitsky, a music business major, plays Wayne Hopkins.
• Ava Jo Sullivan, a double major in music and theater, plays Megan Jones.
• Cash Jones, a sophomore studying business management, plays Oliver Rivers and others.
• Russell Frederick, second-year English major, as Cedric and others.
• Maddie Jessen, elementary education major, as Leanne and others.
• Ella Wheeler, sophomore majoring in criminal justice and theater, as Sally Perks and others.
• Harley Buff, first-year theater and communications major, as Hannah, and others.
• Rashaun Scott, a theater major, as Ernie Mac and others.
• Abigail Lauerman, a junior double majoring in psychology and theater, as Prof. Sproutty and others.
• Rachel Nieminen, a sophomore majoring in theater and graphic design, as Professor McG and others.
• Cole Hazen, a freshman theater major, as Seamus and others.
• Andrew Moore, a certain potions teacher and others.
• Nader El Ahmadie, a graduate student in the Master of Business Administration program, as Uncle Dave and others.
• David Dixon, a junior music education major, as J. Finch and others.

*Puffs is an independent parody and is not authorized, sanctioned, licensed, or endorsed by J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros., or any organizations associated with the original Harry Potter books, films, or stage productions.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

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. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.