SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – Evangel University’s Theatre program proudly presents “The Matchmaker,” a play by Thorton Wilder. Showtimes are November 2-4 at 7 p.m. in Evangel’s Barnett Theater. The community is invited to attend.
Ticket prices are $20 for adults (19-59), $15 for senior citizens (60+) and students/children, and $5 for current EU students with valid I.D. Tickets may be purchased in advance at https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/76415 or at the box office.
Production and performers
“The Matchmaker” is a comedy by reknowned American playwright Thorton Wilder. The story follows the irrepresible Dolly Gallagher Levi, a professional matchmaker, as she assists Horace Vandergelder, a wealthy merchant, in finding a wife. Dolly’s story is subsequently affected by two of Vandergelder’s clerks, a variety of ladies, and the headwaiter at an expensive restaurant, leading to comedic complications.
“The Matchmaker” served as the basis for the 1964 hit Broadway musical “Hello, Dolly!” Various iterations have starred Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, and Carol Channing as Dolly, and a 1969 film version directed by Gene Kelly was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture.
“The story of Dolly Levi is uproariously funny and features everything from slapstick situations, mistaken identities, and secret rendezvous,” said Dr. Vickie Wisdom, professor of theatre and head of EU Theatre. “We invite the community to join us for what will undoubtedly be a night of laughter and excitement!”
Students from any major may audition for a role in EU Theatre productions. The cast features the following Evangel students:
Dolly Gallagher Levi – Olivia Ingamells
Horace Vandergelder – Colten Wilson
Cornelius Hackl – Dawson Flatness
Barnaby Tucker – Geoffrey Prest
Malachi Stack – Lane Buckingham
Ambrose Kemper – Christian Redding
Joe Scanlon/August – Payton Penman
Rudolph – Clayton Wester
Cabman – Kale Bauer
Miss Flora VanHuysen – Anna Pratt
Mrs. Molloy – Mikayla Baker
Minnie Fay – Chloe Deutsch
Ermengarde – Jolie Smallwood
Gertrude – London Redstone
Miss VanHuysen’s Cook – Harmony Husbands
The Theatre program at Evangel University is a vibrant offering through its Humanities Department.
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Evangel University, with its embedded Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive Spirit-led Christian university located in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, EU is committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to serve the Church and society globally and becoming compassionate innovators in their chosen vocations. EU offers more than 70 degree programs, including cutting-edge majors, pre-professional programs, and affordable and flexible online degree options.
EU is highly regarded and has been ranked:
- #1 Best College in Springfield & #2 Best Christian College in Missouri by Niche
- US News & World Report Best Colleges Top Performer in Social Mobility
- Colleges of Distinction Best Christian University
- Top 10 Best Universities by AcademicInfluence.com
- Third Most Beautiful Campus in the Midwest by Christian Colleges & Universities
- Top 10 Best Colleges in Missouri by BestColleges.com
With additional accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology and certification as an Excellence in Giving university, EU is focused on providing students with hands-on experience and real-world training for today’s professional careers. Learn more about the university at evangel.edu.