Sale Theatre was transformed into River City March 19-22 as Ferrum College Theatre staged The Music Man. At center stage sat a player piano, a small but charming addition that could be the kind of thing that first sparks a child’s interest in music or acting. It was just one of the many details that made this production one of a kind.
“This marked my second opportunity to work alongside the Theatre Department, and once again, I was completely blown away by the talent, passion, and professionalism of our faculty, staff, students, community members, and guest professionals involved in the production,” said Athletic Director Cleive Adams, who took on the dual role of conductor and constable.
He also mentioned that RAchel-Blankenship-Tucker and Professors Emily Blankenship-Tucker and Rebecca Crocker are exceptional leaders whose commitment to the theatre program is truly inspiring.
“Their passion not only elevates every production but also honors and carries forward the legacy of Professor Rex Stephenson in a meaningful and lasting way. The time I spent in rehearsals and throughout four consecutive performances is something I will genuinely cherish,” Adams said.
He also said that being part of the production reinforced so many core values; teamwork, determination, pride, collaboration, relentlessness, appreciation for others, commitment, and sacrifice.
“It takes an incredible collective effort to bring something of this magnitude to life, and witnessing that firsthand was both humbling and inspiring,” Adams said.
For others, this production served as a chance to grow both on and off stage.
“I recently moved from the small, mostly retirement-aged, town of Apalachicola, FL. Their community theatre needed some young blood, and they encouraged me to audition,” said Sophia Fonsefa, who played Ewart Dunlop & Salesman #2. “I have always been shy to act, but everyone was so welcoming and became like family to me. Putting on shows have been some of the most challenging and rewarding moments of my life, and I love having these experiences that help me grow both personally and professionally in theatre.”
That same sense of connection is what keeps bringing others back to the Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre.
“I first came to Ferrum to work at the Dinner Theatre in 2009 and 2010. I’ve travelled and lived all over the world since then, but the people who feel like family keep me coming back to this part of the world again and again,” said Kelly Sullivan, an alumna who played Maud Dunlop in the show.
“I worked (for Rex Stephenson) at the dinner theatre for my college internship. It was one of my first professional jobs in theatre and taught me so much. He instilled a lot of confidence in me as a young performer, and years later continued to do so as a friend and mentor. I wouldn’t be who I am today, onstage or off, without his friendship and guidance.”
By the final curtain, audiences were left with a deeper appreciation for the charm and connection of small-town life. For a few hours, River City reminded audiences that it’s the people, the relationships, and the shared moments that truly make a community special.
