-Information compiled by J. Ann Tipton
Father-son duo John Thomas and Tommy Oaks will present the original musical Star Queen on Oct. 25 at 8 p.m. in Seeger Chapel as one of this year’s Homecoming festivities. Students may purchase tickets for $1 from the Student Life Office.
Q: Briefly explain Star Queen (what can audience members expect?):
A: Star Queen is a campy, fast-paced comedy version of the story of Queen Esther. I play most of the female roles, and Tommy plays all the villains. It’s reminiscent of something like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in that it utilizes lots of styles of music to tell the story.
Q: Where did the idea for this show come from?
A: My dad came up with the idea of a musical version of the show. I sat down and fleshed it out.
Q: Why are you bringing Star Queen to Milligan for Homecoming this year?
A: Richard Major invited us. He saw us do it at ETSU in March of '02 and suggested that we come and do the show for Homecoming.
Q: Where is the show playing now? How often are you on the road?
A: Right now it's running in Oklahoma City. I travel every weekend, and sometimes during the week as well.
Q: Are you currently working on other shows?
A: Dad and I are also writing a female Scrooge musical, and I'm working on a bluegrass project called Blue York.
Q: How have your father's talents and experiences influenced your life choices, particularly about your vocation?
A: Dad is my greatest example of how to trust God with your career. He is the most peaceful, Christ-focused man I've ever known. He never worries, because he knows God is going to take care of him no matter what. He has always encouraged me to do what I love to do.
Q: Your faith has obviously influenced your decision in pursuing a show like Star Queen. How does your Christian faith play into being in the entertainment world?
A: I think it's difficult, but necessary for Christian artists to work in the "secular" world. Otherwise, we end up preaching to the converted all the time.