Belmont Abbey Players Finish Off The Year
Author: The Crusader Staff Writer Amir Joseph
The Abbey Players have had a stellar year, presenting a series of shows that were met with overwhelming success. The excitement was palpable as many of these performances sold out, and the 2023-2024 Abbey had a bustling crowd, with all eight shows held in the Haid Theatre. The casts were a mix of Abbey students, community members, and talented students from neighboring high schools. As we wrap up the year, let’s take a moment to relish the fantastic shows that graced our stage.
The year started with Blithe Spirit on August 24th and had its last showing on the third of September. The next time the Abbey Players graced the Haid was short after, with the showing of The Three Musketeers on October 5th and their last showing on the 15th. Oklahoma! was next on the player’s stop as they put on their musical for the year from November 9th to the 19th. The players then finished the year with two showings of Christmas at the Abbey on the 2nd of December.
2024 started with a fun one with the 24-hour theater project on January 13th. The Murder on The Orient Express brought mystery and Murder to the Abbey in February as Jill Bloede directed a suspenseful thriller. An Abbey student had this to say about Jill’s show. “I’ve never seen a more complicated but well-put-together set. It literally folded and morphed before our eyes.” At the same time, one of the Abbey’s well-known history professors, Troy Feay, starred as Hercule Poirot. To finish the year, the players complete their eight-show run with Romeo and Juliet (Directed by Christopher Donague) and The Dance Showcase, ending the season on the 28th. The Abbey players have outdone themselves with this season’s lineup.
With the year ending, expect even more from the players in years to come as they put on even more works of art. However, don’t forget the amazing individuals who make up the backbone of the players. Christopher Donaguhe (Visiting Assistant Professor & Director of the Abbey Players), Blake Williams (Adjunct Professor, Director, Vocal instructor, and Coach), Gary Sivak (Technical Director, Designer, and Instructor), Jill Bloede (Associate Professor and Director), and Mikaela Byrd (Marketing Coordinator/House manager for the performing arts).
Without the help of these wonderfully talented directors, professors, and managers, the Abbey wouldn’t have the players.
This article was originally posted in the Spring 2024, Issue 2 of The Crusader Newspaper. Download the full issue here.
