Near Aviation’s Birthplace, University Presents Play on Charles Lindbergh
Cedarville University’s production of "Flight: The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh" explores the aviator’s fame, personal tragedy, and public controversy, connecting his story to the Dayton region, where aviation first took flight.
Located near Dayton, Ohio, the birthplace of aviation, Cedarville University presents “Flight: The Rise and Fall of Charles Lindbergh.” The play opened on April 9 and runs through April 19. Tickets are available at https://www.cedarville.edu/playtickets.
The production carries special relevance in the Dayton region. On June 22, 1927, just weeks after his solo transatlantic flight from New York to Paris, Lindbergh stopped in Dayton to visit Orville Wright at Hawthorn Hill, linking one of aviation’s most famous figures to the community where flight began.
“Flight” Explores Charles Lindbergh’s Rise to Fame and Public Scrutiny
Garth Wingfield’s “Flight” follows Charles Lindbergh as he rises to fame after his 1927 solo transatlantic flight from New York to Paris and discovers that his life will remain in the spotlight — for better or for worse. After piloting the Spirit of St. Louis for the 33 ½-hour journey, Lindbergh became an instant celebrity celebrated by much of the world, including President Calvin Coolidge, who presented him with the Distinguished Flying Cross and made him a colonel in the Air Corps Reserve.
Lindbergh’s life — from his monumental flight to the kidnapping of his child and the controversy surrounding his public views during World War II — played out before a world that slowly turned against him. “Flight” captures Lindbergh’s story, offering glimpses of his private life alongside the version presented by the media.
Cedarville Theatre Professor Reflects on the Humanity of Charles Lindbergh
“The play reminds us of our own humanity by helping us humanize legendary figures,” said Chad Kennedy, assistant professor of theatre. “He’s a real person, not a character in a melodrama. Like most of us, he’s bullheaded and struggles to face truths that hurt his heart or his pride. Our play suggests that approaching life with humility and treating others with grace is more important than elevating public personas.”
This is the first Cedarville play to be directed by Kennedy, who described the experience as rewarding but challenging.
“This show’s narrative structure allows for character and design choices that are refreshingly creative but practically complex,” said Kennedy. “The modular set moves through about two dozen configurations, and the ensemble cast of 14 actors collectively plays nearly 50 different characters.”
According to Kennedy, the cast learned to fly for themselves as they leaned into the theme of surrender found in the script and took some of the creative risks that are necessary for growth and innovation. While exploring the world of Charles Lindbergh, Kennedy found challenges for both the cast and the audience.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.