Faculty, Staff, LOU Community Take the Stage This Weekend

This year's community production, "Rodgers and Hammerstein's State Fair," is set for 7:30 p.m. Friday (June 26) and Saturday (June 27) in the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts.

Meaghin Burke, research counsel II at the university, who plays Jeanne in the production, makes the case for seeing "State Fair" this weekend, beyond supporting the arts and local community.

"'State Fair' is one of the rarer gems of American musical theater," Burke said. "The songs are rich and the themes – heartbreak, hope, family – are timeless. It's a special opportunity to see a show that isn't performed frequently. 

"It's also unbelievably fun to see your community members bringing their best to the stage. How often do you get to see your lawyer do a high kick?" 

She and other Ole Miss faculty and staff say being part of a musical's cast and crew brings new friendships and, sometimes, a chance to perform with family members.

Burke said she has enjoyed doing musical theater since childhood, and some of her favorite memories are sharing the stage with her dad.

"Now I get to share that joy with my 11-year-old son (Bremen) who is also in 'State Fair,'" she said. "Sharing this magical experience with my son and honoring my father's love of the theater are the most rewarding aspects. 

"So far, the biggest challenges have involved my ability to still do high kicks and pas de chat lifts. Epsom salts has been a lifesaver!"

Joe Jackson, stage director and choreographer for "State Fair" and instructional assistant professor of musical theatre dance, has been a part of these productions for the past three summers.

"We have such a vibrant, supportive and talented community that it makes the whole process that much more enjoyable," Jackson said. "The fact that our stage is full of current university students, alumni and local professionals is a testament to the diversity and wide range of skills in our community.

"Watching individuals master a dance step or hit a difficult harmony is so great. Watching cast members who met at the first rehearsal become so close throughout the five weeks, and seeing many of them continue their friendship beyond the show is very special. On a personal note, my wife, Amy, and oldest son, Owen, are both in the show, so it's been rewarding to share the experience with them!"

Other faculty and staff members in the show include:

• Michael Worthy (music director), along with his wife, Brooke Worthy, son Bennett and father-in-law Freddie Bagley
• Rhonda Hackworth (ensemble), along with her husband, Matt Hackworth
• Miriah Borden (lighting design)
• Meg Winkler (props design)
• Holly Rankin (hair and makeup).

Retired faculty and staff involved with the show include Robert Aubrey (fair announcer), Dr. Jean Gispen (ensemble) and Rene E. Pulliam (costume design).

The challenge each summer is melding the participants' various ages and levels of experience into a cohesive production in a short rehearsal period, generally a little over a month), said Julia Aubrey, director of the Ford Center and a veteran of these productions.

It is a worthwhile endeavor, she said.

"The Ford Center took on this project as a way to bring together the Oxford and university communities," she said. "The children, teenagers, university students, community adults, faculty and staff, and our amazing alumni have an exceptional opportunity to create art in this beautiful performing arts center.

"This could only happen with the support of Nancye Starnes, the Ford Center and the university. It is truly a gift for those involved and our audience."

For faculty and staff who may consider participating in next summer's community musical, Aubrey recommends asking individuals who audition every year.

"It is a big commitment, yet they will attest that it is worth every minute of their time. We must be doing something right."

See "State Fair" ticket information.

Top: This year's community production of 'Rodgers and Hammerstein's State Fair' is set for June 26-27 at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts.