Theatre Schedule Features Comedy, Musicals, Myths and Nostalgia
The first production of the year, “The Real Inspector Hound,” is a cheeky spoof on the works of Agatha Christie. As Muldoon Manor turns into a comedic whirlwind, two feuding theater critics comment on the show and get tangled up in the chaos themselves. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26-28, and 2 p.m. Sept. 29, in the James G. Severns Theatre in Ophelia Parrish.
“Ride the Cyclone” is a quirky, edgy musical where six teen chamber choir members meet their fate on a doomed roller coaster ride. In limbo, a mechanical fortune teller offers them a chance to return to life. As they face their fate, each character reveals their dreams, regrets and unique stories through catchy tunes and dark humor. This cult hit blends comedy, tragedy and enchantment, leaving audiences laughing, reflecting and feeling great about life. Performances of “Ride the Cyclone” will take place in the Severns Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7-9 and Nov. 15-16, as well as a matinee at 2 p.m. Nov. 17.
The Theatre Showcase will take place at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5-6 in the Black Box Theatre. Students will perform one-act plays and scenes from the “Play Direction” class. Students in “Acting for Musical Theatre” will perform musical numbers.
A version of the Seneca play “Medea” will run at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 20-22 and 2 p.m. Feb. 23 in the Severns Theatre. The mythic figure of Medea has captivated audiences for millennia. When Jason, the hero she helped and loved, abandons Medea for a royal match, she is driven to unimaginable vengeance. This rendition brings the timeless tale to life within a contemporary framework that challenges the perceptions of the role of women, mothers and outsiders in society.
“Peter and the Starcatcher,” a magical prequel to “Peter Pan” that reimagines the origin of the beloved boy who never grows up, will be featured in the Severns Theatre at 7:30 p.m. April 10-12 and April 16-17, with a matinee performance at 2 p.m. April 13. This wildly theatrical adventure follows a young orphan and his friends as they encounter pirates, a magical trunk of starstuff, and a determined starcatcher-in-training, Molly. With inventive staging and a playful spirit, this whimsical journey explores friendship, bravery and the magic of youth.
Get ready to sing along with “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” April 25-27. This energetic, retro revue makes learning fun and unforgettable, and brings the Emmy-winning 1970s cartoon series to the stage. Join Tom, a nervous teacher, as he discovers his favorite TV show comes to life, teaching him how to win over his students with catchy tunes like “Just a Bill” and “Conjunction Junction.” Perfect for all ages, this fun-filled show updates the cherished series for a new generation. Performances will take place April 25-27 in Baldwin Auditorium. Show times remain to be announced.
Information about events and tickets will be posted online as they become available. Students interested in auditioning for upcoming productions, or working as a member of the crew, can find more details here. Many parts in Truman Theatre productions are open to non-majors.