The CIU Players Present “The Matchmaker”

The CIU Players Present “The Matchmaker”

"The Matchmaker" performed at Columbia International University

John Dabek (left) as Horace Vandergelder and Drew Lindeman as his barber in "The Matchmaker" (Photo by Zech Kramm)

By Michael A. Lanier

CIU Student Writer

Hoke Auditorium was filled with laughter as two characters scrambled to hide from their grouchy boss, while at the same time tried to impress the ladies of New York City. This odd scenario occurred during the premiere of the CIU Players' newest production, “The Matchmaker” performed during Homecoming 2016. 

“The Matchmaker” is a classic Broadway comedy written by Thornton Wilder which follows the adventures of two young men eager for adventure in 1880s New York City. They try to have as much fun as possible while simultaneously attempt to find themselves a sweetheart. But their strict boss, from whom they had only just escaped, has decided to take a trip to the city as well, and hilarity ensues as the two co-workers continually attempt to hide from their boss, who seems to always be just around the corner.

The CIU Players held a special showing of the play specifically for alumni during Homecoming 2016 to rave reviews.

“The actors did a wonderful job!” said Jim Pitcher, class of 1966.

The play required a bit of slapstick as the characters had to hide or run away, which set a high expectation for the cast to not only deliver their lines well but also to be in specific places at just the right moments, a task not easily done on a stage.

“I enjoyed not knowing what would happen next,” said Larry Dubois, class of 1971.

“It was fun and superb,” added Bob Long, class of 1976.

The cast and crew of the play not only enjoyed performing for the alumni, but they were also thankful for the opportunity to work with one another.

“It is an incredible cast that I am blessed to work with,” said sophomore John Dabek, who played the leading role of Horace Vandergelder. “It makes for an environment that is incredibly successful.”

Co-director Ariel Vincent, a junior, said she was “Really proud of the cast for working so hard.”

“Being in this play has been such a joy,” said freshman Ireland Kost, who had a leading role as the character Ermengarde. “It's been great to use gifts God has given me to perform for other people.”

Additional performances of “The Matchmaker” are scheduled for Hoke Auditorium on Nov. 11-13. Show times: Nov. 11-12 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 13 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $2 for students and $5 for the public.