Theatre Season Captures Broadway Hits, Stories of Prominent People & Social Topics

All Shows Offer $5 Student Admission

Original Broadway Art

Rent, Clue and Being Earnest along with a stage glimpse into Vince Lombardi and historic social topics are all part of the 2023-24 Theatre & Dance lineup of productions ranging from thought-provoking dramas to beloved musicals.

Student tickets for all shows are priced at an affordable $5, allowing students to experience the magic of live theater and dance without breaking the bank.

Showcase performances that include “Rent,” “Clue on Stage,” and “Anastasia, The Musical,” will share this year’s billing with classics such as “The Importance of Being Earnest.” Other productions include a biopic look at the life and philosophy of football coaching legend Vince Lombardi, a provocation play that looks at early gay rights in the 1950s, and the story of an 1869 expedition that challenged gender roles.

This year’s impressive lineup of shows again showcases the perennial award-winning talents of the university’s performing arts students.

“The Temperamentals,” running Sept. 20 to 23. This provocative play explores the true story of the early gay rights organization, the Mattachine Society, and its courageous members as they fight for acceptance and equality in 1950s America.

“RENT” running Sept. 28-30 and Oct. 5-8. The university’s talented performers will take the stage with the groundbreaking musical set in the gritty backdrop of New York City’s East Village. This award-winning musical tells a powerful tale of love, friendship, and resilience against the backdrop of the HIV/AIDS crisis.

“The Importance of Being Earnest,” running Nov. 2-4 and Nov. 9-12. A delightful Oscar Wilde classic, this witty and satirical comedy explores the themes of mistaken identity and social conventions.

“Lombardi” running Nov. 15-18. Theater enthusiasts can witness the inspiring story of legendary football coach Vince Lombardi. This captivating play delves into the life of the iconic figure, revealing his relentless drive and leadership that made him a true legend of the sport.

Fall Dance Concert running Nov. 30 and Dec. 2. Choreographed by talented students and faculty, this captivating performance showcases the beauty and expressiveness of dance through a collection of captivating pieces.

“Seminar” running Jan. 31 to Feb. 3. Starting the new year with a bang, this comedic gem explores the tensions and dynamics between a group of aspiring writers and their infamous seminar leader as they navigate the treacherous waters of the literary world.

“Clue: On Stage” running Feb. 15-17 and Feb. 22-25. Fans of the classic board game are in for a treat. This hilarious adaptation brings the beloved characters to life as they solve a murder mystery in a most entertaining and unexpected way.

“Men on Boats” running March 13-17. A bold and imaginative retelling of the Powell Geographic Expedition of 1869. challenges traditional gender roles and celebrates the spirit of exploration.

“Anastasia, The Musical” running April 4-6 and April 11-14. Audiences can experience the enchanting tale inspired by the animated film. This Broadway hit takes viewers on an extraordinary journey as a young woman seeks to uncover her mysterious past and find her place in the world.

“Round Trip Ticket” running April 17 to 20. Is it a play about two actors starring in a spy series? Or a play about two overanxious criminals role-playing as actors? Or maybe a play about two spies infiltrating a crime family? Turns out it’s all three in this hilarious, fast-moving comedy. Prepare for swordfights, fistfights, and tap dancing—all at the same time in this original production written by an alum of the University and a current instructor in the Department of Theatre and Dance! 

“Carmina Burana” running April 25-27. Closing the season with a grand finale, this spectacular collaboration among the theater, music and dance departments presents an epic production of Carl Orff’s iconic choral masterpiece, combining powerful music, captivating choreography, and stunning visuals.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *