U of I theatre arts professor Kelly Eviston-Quinnett to star in film directed by John Travolta

MOSCOW, Idaho — Professor Kelly Eviston-Quinnett, head of acting at University of Idaho’s Department of Theatre Arts, stars in John Travolta’s directorial debut “Propeller One-Way Night Coach.” The family-friendly film premiered at the 79th Cannes Film Festival in France earlier this month ahead of its global release Friday, May 29, on Apple TV.

“I still can’t believe this is happening — this is something I have dreamt of for most of my life,” Eviston-Quinnett said. "I can’t say enough about how special this has been. To have worked with such an incredible actor and human being, John Travolta, and to have been directed by him — well, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

Travolta, who is known for starring in films such as “Saturday Night Fever” (1977) and “Grease” (1978), first released “Propeller One-Way Night Coach” as a children’s book in 1997.

Set in the golden age of aviation, “Propeller One-Way Night Coach” tells the story of a young airplane enthusiast, Jeff (played by Clark Shotwell of Coeur d’Alene), and his mother (played by Eviston-Quinnett) on a one-way cross-country odyssey to Hollywood. The journey transforms a simple flight into the trip of a lifetime. Between airline meals, charming flight attendants, unexpected stopovers and a thrilling glimpse at first class, the journey unfolds in moments both magical and unexpected, charting the course for the boy’s future.

“To have a colleague starring in a film written and directed by an A-list star and walking the red carpet at Cannes is remarkable, and it speaks to Kelly’s level of artistry and professionalism,” said Robert Caisley, Theatre Arts department chair. “We are proud not only because of what this means for her personally, but because her success also shines a light on our program and inspires our students, who are excited to see their professor recognized on such an international stage.”

Eviston-Quinnett said the international premiere gave her an opportunity to spotlight U of I’s theatre program on a global stage.

“I am so excited to carry the spirit of our program and our community to the Cannes premiere,” Eviston-Quinnett said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I want to share it with everyone. I’m so very grateful and so happy to celebrate and share the work.”

View the trailer on YouTube. For more information about the Department of Theatre Arts, visit go.uidaho.edu/theatre-arts.

MEDIA NOTE: Kelly Eviston-Quinnett is available for media interviews. Reach out to Danae Lenz at dlenz@uidaho.edu to schedule.

Media contact

Danae Lenz
External Communications Coordinator
University of Idaho
208-885-1605
dlenz@uidaho.edu