Holdin Boswell from Llano celebrated his 11th birthday this past week. He lives with his parents, Bucky and Katie Boswell, and his brother, Rode Ligon. He also has a dog named “Turtle.” Kathy Austin and Carolyn Preece are his grandmothers.
I had a chance to interview Holdin’s mother about his upcoming performance at Hill County Community Theater in Cottonwood Shores where he has the lead role and will be playing Oliver in Lionel Bart’s “Oliver!”
Holdin will be in the 6th grade at Cherokee ISD. He likes football, performing, and playing video games. In his free time, Holdin likes to spend time with friends, play with his dog “Turtle,” and watch television.
When I asked his mother when Holdin first showed an interest in drama, she said he has been a fan of attention since he was very young. He even used to dance at his older brother's school functions. She noted that he has always been very outgoing and has never been shy or embarrassed to try new things. He loves music of all genres and is a wiz at lyrics.
When I asked his mother if Holdin has had any drama training, she explained that he began taking lessons at Performance Talent in San Saba with Kay Lynn Scott in the summer of 2022 and had prior classes at Calamity and Grace in Llano. His mother noted that he has MC'd for Kay Lynn Scott at several events, but play-ing Oliver will be his first time on the big stage.
According to information from Holdin’s mother, he has earned first place multiple years in a row at UIL In Oral Reading and Poetry, and he was the narrator of the elementary play of 'This is Not a Musical' this past December.
There is no doubt why he was cast as the lead in “Oliver.” You can find more information, including ticket prices and times, on Holdin's upcoming performance at https://thehcct.org/.
If you were to ask Holdin what he wants to do when he grows up, he would tell you that he has plans to be a famous actor AND a professional football player (preferably for the Minnesota Vikings).
Congratulations, Holdin! And Happy Birthday!