Cedarville Magazine Spring 2026

BUZZ THE @CU Campus News Brought to You by Public Relations HORIZONS OF GOLD MUSICAL DEBUTS ON CEDARVILLE STAGE Cedarville University’s theatre program staged the collegiate premiere of Horizons of Gold February 5–15 in the DeVries Theatre. Inspired by the biblical book of Ruth, the musical follows Rose, a young widow during the Dust Bowl era, as she navigates grief and discovers hope through unexpected kindness. Set against the hardship of the Great Depression, the story weaves themes of loyalty, faith, healing, and redemption. Originally produced at Mars Hill Academy more than a decade ago, the show has since grown in popularity across Midwest community theatres, with Cedarville becoming the first university to present it. Directed by Stacey Stratton and featuring a richly layered score by James Kenniv and Jeff Smith, the ambitious production showcased a large student cast and marked a significant milestone for both the playwright and the University’s theatre program. Cedarville President Thomas White praised the production’s impact after attending a sold-out performance. “The play was amazing. I cannot imagine the work that went into it,” White said. “The play was thoroughly biblical and honored God. It was funny and entertaining. There were so many students who were able to participate, and the singing and music were among the best I have ever heard. You could tell the crowd loved it, and the cast was filled with joy. Well done.” 42

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM4ODY=