This year’s Homecoming Musical, Matilda, will return to campus after years of downtown performances at the Abilene Convention Center. The musical will be in the revitalized Cullen Auditorium, now known as the Boone Theatre.
Boone Family Theatre has undergone a complete makeover with a new lobby and revamped theatre. This transformation sets the stage for Matilda the Musical for this Homecoming season.
Heading the creative ensemble is Joey Banks, an assistant professor from Austin. With his direction, he promises to infuse new life into the production.
“The talent, both on stage and off, highlights the fact that ACU theatre program is one of the best in the state of Texas,” Banks said.
Eric Pitney, assistant professor of theatre, is in charge of lights, scenery and costumes for this year’s musical. Catherine Baumgardner, assistant professor of theatre, has spearheaded the creation of outfits from scratch.
Along with costumes and set, Lily Balogh, artist-in-residence, has made a special effort to help choreograph the production, despite residing in Lubbock. As a former dancer with the New York City Ballet, her contribution promises to elevate the show’s dance sequences to a whole new level.
Dawne Swearingen-Meeks, theatre department chair and professor, looks forward to this production.
“We are beyond thrilled to return home for our 2023 Homecoming Musical. This show is a family-friendly joy ride filled with heartfelt moments that will warm your heart. Audiences are in for an evening of delightful entertainment,” Meeks said. “Dr. Steven Ward brings excellence to our production as conductor, and Dr. Chris Hollingsworth brings magic to the stage with his musical direction. Big thank you to Dr. Schubert and the administration. We are so grateful for this beautiful new theatre space.”
A student rush price of $15 will be available, and the box office opens a few hours before each performance. The showtimes are as follows: Oct. 12-14 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 15 at 2 p.m. Full-price tickets are available for $45.
To avoid long lines, be sure to arrive early, as there will not be open seating. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or by visiting the box office, which is open Monday through Friday until 5 p.m.
