be_ixf;ym_202511 d_13; ct_50

Evangel University Theatre invites community to fall production of “The Last Lifeboat”

Published on Oct 14, 2025 by Randy Hanner

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – The community is invited to attend Evangel University’s fall Theatre production of “The Last Lifeboat” with performances Nov. 6-8 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. in the Barnett Fine Arts Theater on Evangel’s campus.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at evangel.edu/boxoffice or at the door. Prices are $20 for adults (ages 19-59), $15 for senior citizens (ages 60+) and students/children (ages 4-18), and $5 for current EU students with ID.

“The Last Lifeboat,” written by Luke Yankee, shares the untold story of J. Bruce Ismay, chairman of the White Star Line, who survived the Titanic disaster—but at what cost? The production sheds new light on one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters through the eyes of the man left to live with its consequences. Haunted by public scorn and personal guilt, Ismay’s journey unfolds in this deeply human story of resilience and redemption.

“This production reaches to the heart and explores the ramifications of a split-second decision. It studies the moral weight of survival and the consequences of a single fateful choice,” said Lori Lawley, EU instructor of theatre. “As directors, we truly hope that the dialogue surrounding the consequences of decisions will resonate deeply with our Evangel students—not just in the moment, but in a way that shapes how they think and act moving forward.”

The cast of “The Last Lifeboat” includes:

  1. Bruce Ismay- Colten Wilson

Thomas, Sen. Smith, Lord Mersey, Fry- Richard Swanson

Chaplain, Hearst & Mr. Astor- Christian Redding

Lightoller, Sen. Fletcher, Butler, J.P. Morgan- Malachi Stickney

Andrews, Farrelly, & Steward- Addison Jackson

Chairman, Murdoch, Dr. McGee, Rector & Althorp- Corbin Moore

Sanderson, Capt. Smith, & Franklin- A.J. Pennington

Margaret Ismay & ensemble- Grace Muñoz

Evelyn Ismay- Trinity Brown

George Ismay- Thatcher Dingus

Florence Ismay- Heide Blackert

Vivian Hilliard- Reagan Smith

Mrs. Madeline Astor & ensemble- Melody Brauninger

Mrs. Ryerson & ensemble- Aubrey Jackson

Mother & ensemble- Addilyn Delcamp

Angela/Dr. Grenfell & ensemble- Jenni Pino

Sophie, Gonzalo, & ensemble- Isabella Little

Old Woman & ensemble- Miriella Dilse

Lady Peale & ensemble- Hailey Wray

Mrs. Chase & ensemble- Adaley Conn

Boatswain, Italian Wife & ensemble- Rebekah Harper

Ensemble- Tally Rodriguez

Ensemble- Olivia Reid

CREW

Stage Manager- Brianna Gonzalez

Sound- Macy Parsons

Lights- Macy Judd

The Theatre program is one offering of Evangel’s well-rounded Humanities Department.

###

Evangel University, with the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive, Spirit-led Christian university in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, Evangel educates and equips students to serve the Church and society globally. Evangel offers more than 70 degree programs, including cutting-edge majors, pre-professional pathways, and flexible online options.

Recent recognition includes:

  • Top 15% of Christian Colleges in America — Niche (2026)
  • Top Performer in Social Mobility — U.S. News & World Report (2026)
  • Best Christian University — Colleges of Distinction (2026)

Evangel also holds program accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology, and is certified as an Excellence in Giving university. Learn more at evangel.edu.