Wilmington College to Present Musical Cabaret: ‘This Thing Called Love’

WILMINGTON, Ohio (March 27, 2026)—The Wilmington College Music and Theatre Departments will join forces to present a musical cabaret titled “This Thing Called Love” on April 16 and 17, at 7:30 p.m., in Heiland Theatre, located in Boyd Cultural Arts Center.

The cabaret will highlight the theatrical and musical talents of students involved in both programs by drawing from the Great American Songbook, featuring familiar pieces by Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, the Gershwins, and others. Styled as a jazzy cabaret, the band will take the spotlight as vocalists perform the music and lyrics of some of our most cherished songs about falling in love and falling out of love — and everything in between. 

“This Thing Called Love” will have scenic and lighting elements designed by senior Dalan Toups, and featured performances by Ollie Basta, Isaac Burns, Otto Cipollini, Bo Frye, Nate Fulton, Carlie McCoy, Fiona Powell, Ari Rudd, Emma Schnecker, Hannah Schroeder, and Devon Snyder. The band will consist of Noah Cook, Gabe Gilliland, and Bryson Hunt. Teddy Murphy and Nathan Sorn will contribute to both groups. Elaine Groves will serve as the production’s stage manager.

Bryan Wallingford, assistant professor of music, will direct the show with music direction by Timothy Larrick and vocal coaching by Bekah Wall, assistant professor of communication arts. Evan Hatter, assistant professor of music and director of Quaker Thunder Bands, will conduct the music, with Becky Haines, theatre technician, providing sound design. The set will be constructed by students under the management of Linda Mead, while Jason Burgess, assistant professor of theatre, will provide lighting and design mentorship.

The cabaret performances will be free of charge to college and community members. Doors will open 30 minutes before each performance, with festival seating and no reservations needed.

Article Submitted by Wilmington College