Hello Dolly! has been delighting audiences for decades with its rip-roaring humor, iconic music, and buoyant optimism.  The original Broadway production in 1964 won ten Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Actress in a Leading Role, and Best Original Score. The 2017 Broadway revival also received high accolades at the Tonys including Best Revival of A Musical. The role of Dolly Gallagher-Levi was originated by Carol Channing, and has been subsequently filled by a who's-who list of Broadway songstresses including Pearl Bailey, Mary Martin, Ginger Rogers, Ethel Merman, Bette Midler, and Bernadette Peters. The musical was adapted to film in 1969 starring Barbra Streisand in the title role, but many of the younger generation will be more familiar with that film's cameo appearances in the 2008 animated movie, WALL-E. Based on Thornton Wilder's play, The Matchmaker, the story follows the comedic hijinks, romantic pursuits, and stunning dance numbers instigated by Dolly. 

The purpose of Life Way Performing Arts is to develop lifelong excellence in students to the glory of Jesus Christ through the medium of theatre. Students participating in this program collaborate at a high level to produce dramatic presentations that engage and inspire our community. Along with acting and singing, students construct sets, design lighting, create original musical compositions, write scripts, create and source costumes, and develop high-energy choreography for their productions. While some students have gone on to pursue degrees and professions in the theatrical arts, the goal remains for all students to develop life skills through a biblical framework that can be used to benefit their family, church, and the culture at large.