With musical arrangements and orchestrations by David Austin, David Abbinanti, and Nick Wilders, the show features a live band playing popular songs like “Cotton-Eyed Joe,” “Chicken Fried,” “Hey Good Lookin’,” and “Thank God I’m a Country Boy.” John Howard, a versatile member of the Kentucky arts community for many years and now an Adjunct Professor of Theatre at Union, serves as the Musical Director.
[IMAGE: Show poster designed by Prof. Rachel WIlliams and Rayna Duzant]
“Last year with ‘High School Musical,’ the community really gave us a warm welcome, and we are hoping to build on that desire for quality musicals and theatrical performances,” Howard says. “This show isn't going to look like it did on Broadway, but it's going to knock your socks off! SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS!!!!”
The cast and crew include other music and theatre professionals Tara Abner Brown, Russell Mendez, and Makella Hylton; Union students; and many community members, including high school students from Knox Central and Barbourville Independent.
“I love the diversity of this group,” says Teresa Brooks, who plays the older sister, DJ. “We all come together, having fun while creating something we are proud of.”
"I had never been in a musical before, and I am terrified of singing, but working with these people really helped me push through,” says Union student Mateo Daza, who plays Ben.
High schooler Angelo Holstein adds, “This show has put me in such a great community of actors. We've had so much fun, and I've never felt like I'm the odd one out for being young or being queer. The theme of coming back to your roots, as someone who tried to hide themselves for so long, is one that really resonates with me.”
