For TMN, I am Kraig Pierce.
Fort Hays State University’s Theater Department drew in crowds once again with their with their latest production of the musical, “Showboat.” The three-day showing in Malloy Hall’s Felten-Start Theatre showed everyone the kind of remarkable talents that Fort Hays State’s Theatre Department has.
Show Boat, which is based on the best-selling book of the same name, and was written by Edna Ferber and premiered on Broadway in 1927. The musical follows the lives of three generations of showboat actors as they sail the Mississippi River in the 1880’s, and features classic songs such as “Ol’ Man River,” “Make Believe” and “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man.” Show Boat’s plot also takes on the issue of racism with romance, dancing, and music.
“Showboat” was directed by Tomme Williams, who is an instructor of music and theatre at Fort Hays State and its music was directed by Dr. Terry Crull, who is an associate professor of music and theatre. The cast was composed of 25 of Fort Hays State’s theater and music students.
Adam Flax, who played Captain Andy Hawks, was at the forefront of the cast and used his comedic personality to portray Hawks with near precision. Estella Schumacher, who played Magnolia Hawks used her amazing voice in a number of dazzling duets with Clayton Capra, who played Gambler and eventual husband of Magnolia, Gaylord Ravenal.
The next production that Fort Hays State’s Music and Theatre department will be performing will be “Dracula”, and will be showing from November 10th to 13th in Malloy Hall.