Southern Miss Coach and Former Miss Mississippi Join Showstoppers Cast

The highly anticipated University of Southern Mississippi School of Music's production of Showbiz Showstoppers has announced a few surprise guests set to join the cast during its performance on Friday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the Lake Terrace Convention Center.

Southern Miss' men's head basketball coach, Donnie Tyndall, and former Miss Mississippi, Chalie Ray, are scheduled to kick up their heels in the Broadway showcase production.

Tyndall has forged a strong bond with Southern Miss and the Hattiesburg community during his three years at the helm. His exceptional record and commitment to the campus has made him a local favorite. Fans have all but renamed Reed Green Coliseum as “Tyndall Town.”

When asked to be a part of Showbiz Showstoppers, his immediate response was, “Yes, count me in. I appreciate the music department so much and I would love to help.”

Tyndall was tight-lipped on what he would be doing, but die-hard fans who remember his appearance in the Harlem Shake video that became a sensation, have no doubt he has skills that will be put to good use in this production.

Ray was also thrilled to be invited to be a part of the cast. Prior to a mission trip excursion, Ray needed to learn to sing in Russian. The School of Music was eager to aid her. Since then, Ray has had a special connection to the music department.

“I was thrilled to have the opportunity to perform with this wonderful group of talented performers and to sing with these exceptional musicians,” said Ray. “It has been a joy and privilege to get to know these talented young men and women.”

When asked what she will be doing in the show, she echoed Tyndall's reaction, “You will just have to come see.”

Tickets are $20 general admission students at the Southern Miss Ticket Office, 601.266.5418 or southernmisstickets.com.