Henderson, Tennessee — Freed-Hardeman University Theatre will present “Matilda” as its Homecoming musical this fall featuring young actors from the Chester County Youth Theater.

According to a press release from Tajuana Cheshier – The Bramblett Group – this unique production is part of a partnership this fall between FHU Theatre and CCYT. FHU Theatre Professor Dr. Cliff Thompson said “Matilda” will be designed by FHU faculty member Brandyn Graves with Chester County Youth Theater Director Becky Hartle serving as director and Lauren Malecha as musical director.

Thompson will be abroad with students in the fall, and is confident in Graves’ experience as the university’s technical director and in production design as well as Hartle’s skills as a musical theater director. “She is an excellent team builder, and she knows the talent pool of our children better than anyone in the county,” said Thompson, who is Hartle’s father. “I know that she will bring both the child actors and college student participants together to become a single excited group of performers.”

Following the “Matilda” production, CCYT will replace its annual two-week summer theater camp with fall musicals and plays in the spring. “This model will be a more sustainable 5 to 8 week musical to be produced each fall,” Hartle said. “We’re excited to partner with FHU for this fall production,” Hartle said. “This is a one of a kind opportunity that will allow our Chester County students to work with experienced college actors and learn from them.”

The Freed-Hardeman University Theatre program strives to provide a challenging, creative environment built upon scholarship and practice in which all students may enlarge their artistic potential, and to assemble a community of believer-artists dedicated to impacting their world for Christ.

(PHOTO: FHU Theatre students presented “The Burnt Part Boys” for the annual Homecoming musical November 2021)