Abbey News

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.

Author: The Crusader Staff Writer Mary Kate Burke

Luke Thierfelder, a track and field junior, gives insight into what it is like to share equal involvement in athletics and arts. Luke has been training his voice and javelin throwing for roughly four years. He religiously devotes time daily to practicing opera and track; Luke says, “A typical vocal practice consists of thirty minutes of music theory and musicianship and thirty minutes of singing through repertoire. My days of athletic training often consist of lifting, throwing, and sprinting. On a given day, I would say my average training time is around four hours”. With this amount of extracurricular involvement, it is assumed that school would be placed on the back burner, but not in Luke’s case.

Regarding his work balance, he says, “A good structure and routine is the only way to manage my time and energy well. Adhering to a schedule and plan daily is critical in performing my responsibilities as well as I can”. This advice on work ethic can influence all student-athletes trying to train their body and mind with equal attention.

While giving academics their proper due, Luke has competed in opera and track, dramatically excelling in both. He entered an international voice competition in London and finished second. Thierfelder continued his winning streak at the 2023 conference championship, which promoted him to achieve the title “All American” in Division Two nationals this past year, all while being a full-time student. All this to say, Luke’s intentionality and discipline in balancing academics and passions is a testimony that it is possible, with goals, to integrate your endeavors into your professional life.

This article was originally posted in the Spring 2024, Issue 2 of The Crusader Newspaper. Download the full issue here.

Author: The Crusader Staff Writer Jackeline Silva

Belmont Abbey College, nestled in the heart of Belmont, North Carolina, stands as a testament to faith, and academic excellence. Belmont Abbey College, founded in 1876 by Benedictine monks, who began their journey with the idea of providing quality education with the integration of Catholic values. The college was originally established as St. Mary’s College, with a primary focus to prepare young men for a life of service and leadership.

During the 20th century, Belmont Abbey College went through significant expansion and growth. The college expanded its facilities and programs which influenced an increase in enrollment.

In the 21st century, Belmont Abbey College continued to evolve, welcoming technological advancements and educational practices while staying true to its core, catholic values.

To this day, the presence of Benedictine monks continues to be integral regarding the identity of Belmont Abbey College. One of the most profound impacts of the monks is their role as spiritual guides and mentors. Through daily prayer services, retreats, and pastoral care, they provide students with opportunities for reflection, growth, and moral development.

At Belmont Abbey College, the influence of the monks resonates deeply within the campus community, as affirmed by Olivia Brandt, a dedicated student. Brandt says “The monks play a big role in this college and have provided helpful guidance when needed”.

As Belmont Abbey College looks to the future, the influence of the Benedictine monks remains as strong as ever. Their timeless values and commitment to excellence continue to shape the college’s mission and vision.

This article was originally posted in the Spring 2024, Issue 2 of The Crusader Newspaper. Download the full issue here.