In typical theater productions, it’s not uncommon for one person to play multiple roles in one show.

But for five people to play one man who doesn’t talk or sing? That’s a little more unique.

That, however, is what is happening in “Gypsy,” this year’s musical at The University of Findlay.

“Gypsy” is set in the early 1900s and tells the story of a mother, Mama Rose, who tries everything in her power to make her two daughters famous on the Vaudeville circuit. Mama Rose decides her best chance of accomplishing this is to get the attention of Mr. Goldstone, who is a theatrical producer.

Although Mr. Goldstone is depicted as a very powerful man, he doesn’t speak one line or sing one note. There is, however, an entire song dedicated to him. And that song is a big one, according to director Vicki McClurkin.

“The role can easily be doubled by someone, but that number historically is a showstopper,” she said.

Musical director Micheal F. Anders agrees.

“It’s a very fast, up-tempo, rollicking number that gets even faster as it goes,” he said.

So if the role can easily be played by someone else already in the cast, why go to the faculty to fill the part? And why use a different person each night?

Anders and McClurkin decided it would be fun to have more members of the UF family involved in the show. Additionally, they thought students would really enjoy seeing their professors onstage, acting and having a good time.

To select the potential Mr. Goldstones, Anders contacted some members of the faculty whom he knew had an interest in the arts or music. And as luck would have it, five members of the faculty responded to say they were interested.

And who are these potential rising stars?

Dean Tom Dillon (who will perform Wednesday night), dean Paul Sears (Thursday), associate professor Buzz Dyer (Friday), associate professor John Malacos (Saturday) and assistant professor Ron Tulley (Sunday).

“If [students] have one of these professors, I would encourage [them] to come get tickets for the night they perform,” Anders said. “And to get tickets early, because the musicals always sell out fast.”

Each of the professors will have a chance to practice his role a few times before making his debut on the UF stage.

“They’re having a ball,” said McClurkin. “Each of them lends something different to the part, it’s just wonderful.”

The musical runs from Feb. 20-23 at 8 p.m. with a 6 p.m. show on Feb. 24. It is a traditionally entertaining show with several roles students may not expect to see on the UF stage. For example, after starting as a child star and feeling frustrated later in life, one of Mama Rose’s daughters becomes a stripper.

But Anders is confident the show will be a hit.

“You can’t go wrong with a show that features kids, dogs, a lamb and strippers,” he said.

By Paige Aten ’08, communication major, Napoleon, Ohio