New York-based actress returns to HU to direct ‘Seven Brides’

Robin Higginbotham

HUNTINGTON, Ind. Going courtin' is back in style at Huntington University as guest director Robin Higginbotham brings a timeless musical to the stage this fall.

Higginbotham, a professional actress, dancer and choreographer based out of New York City, will guest direct "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" Nov. 14-16 and 21-23. Higginbotham returns to HU after last directing "As It Is In Heaven" in the fall of 2008.

"'Seven Brides' to me is a classic, and it needs to be performed that way," said Higginbotham, who has played the title role of Millie in the Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre. "To me, it is the epitome of musical theater. I want to portray it in the best, classical way that I can."

Based on the popular MGM film, "Seven Brides" follows Millie, a headstrong young bride who attempts to civilize and marry off her six rowdy brothers-in-law. Rich with romance and bursting with comedy, this classic show hearkens back to the glory days of the Hollywood movie musical.

Higginbotham graduated from Shenandoah University with a bachelor's degree in theater and has lived and worked in the New York City area for more than 13 years. She has worked as a professional actress for many years, with credits ranging from Off-Broadway to regional houses across the nation. She has choreographed for The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and has toured the nation with Kenny Rogers, performing in his holiday show, "Kenny Rogers in Christmas from the Heart."

She remains highly involved as both an actress and director with Shenendoah Summer Music Theatre, a professional theatre company that produces four Broadway musicals on the campus of Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va.

Jay Duffer, associate professor of theater arts at HU, hopes that her extensive experience in theater will provide new insight into the field for his students.

"I am thrilled to have Robin return to HU," he said. "She is a gifted individual, and I know she will inspire our students beyond their own expectations. Networking in the business of theater is paramount, and the opportunity to work with someone such as Robin should not be missed by our students."

"I'm very passionate about what I do," Higginbotham said. "They can expect commitment and a safe environment for them to work. I'm really looking forward to being there and creating a great experience for everyone to enjoy."

Auditions for "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" willbe held at 6 p.m. Sept. 4 on campus. Auditions are open to students, faculty and staff as well as to Huntington community members. For more information regarding upcoming auditions, please visit www.huntington.edu/theatre.

Tickets are currently on sale for "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" at the Merillat Centre for the Arts Box Office. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, $9 for HU faculty and staff and $5 for HU students.
The Box Office is open from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays (after Aug. 26).

For information or reservations, call the Box Office at 260-359-4261.