University Stages Collegiate Premiere of “Horizons of Gold”
Cedarville University debuts “Horizons of Gold,” a musical set in the Dust Bowl era and inspired by the book of Ruth. The production explores grief, hope and redemption through powerful music and storytelling.
A touching tale of loyalty, loss and redemption will take center stage as Cedarville University’s theatre program presents “Horizons of Gold” Feb. 5-15 in the DeVries Theatre.
Musical Inspired by Book of Ruth Debuts in DeVries Theatre
Inspired by the biblical book of Ruth, the musical explores the hope of new beginnings as Rose, a young widow living during the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s, grieves and discovers how one stranger’s kindness can change even the bleakest of situations.
Dust Bowl-Era Drama Brings Biblical Redemption to the Stage
Originally produced more than a decade ago at Mars Hill Academy in Mason, Ohio, “Horizons of Gold” has steadily grown in reach, making its way to community theatres across the Midwest. Now, Cedarville is the first university to stage the production, a significant milestone for both the playwright and the university’s theatre program.
“This is an ambitious production,” said Stacey Stratton, associate professor of theatre and the production’s director. “With a large student cast and an intricately arranged score, it’s a beautiful blend of historical grit and the biblical story of redemption. Our students have poured themselves into the artistry and message of this show.”
Composer Duo Behind “Horizons of Gold” Brings National Experience
The score, composed by James Kenniv, owner of Kenniv Music Studios, and Jeff Smith, whose music has been featured in films, on stages, at major sporting events and in theme parks such as Kings Island, Sea World, Walt Disney World and Tokyo Disney, brings a rich musical texture to the story’s emotional arc.
“Just as in the period of ‘Horizons,’ we live in a troubled world today,” said Kenniv. “The story is set in the distress of the Great Depression, but the heart of the story is about individuals hurting, hoping, finding faith, healing and learning to love.”
Kenniv will attend the collegiate debut, which promises a new level of artistic depth and student involvement for the production. With fresh creative energy and expanded staging, this performance marks a significant moment in the musical’s journey.
Tickets Available Now for Cedarville Theatre’s Latest Production
Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased through Purple Pass or Cedarville’s website.
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.