Current Productions
2023 Spring Season
In times of constant change, we may not always recognize the most significant discoveries, decisions and events as they occur. But in hindsight, these momentous turning points become clear. Join us this semester as Missouri State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents three innovative productions that reimagine world-changing people, places and events:
"Sweat"
By Lynn Nottage
Directed by Kristy Thomas
Showings
7:30 p.m. March 1, 6 & 9
2:30 p.m. March 5
Venue
Balcony Theatre
Synopsis
At a working-class bar in Reading, Pennsylvania, a group of lifelong friends gathers after a hard day’s work at the Olmsted Steel Mill, as they have for more than 20 years. But things are about to change. Rumors are flying that the company is planning layoffs and recruiting non-union Latino workers for less money. Suddenly, the middle-class, unionized steelworkers are faced with an existential threat to their livelihoods and retirement security, as well as to the viability and character of their community. Based on the playwright’s personal interviews with citizens of Reading in 2011 — the year it was declared “the poorest small city in the nation” — the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama "Sweat" gives voice to the powerful feelings of loss, betrayal, anger, resentment and grievance that scar Rust Belt America.
NOTE: Mature language and themes.
Tickets
Adult: $14
Senior: $12
MSU Student: $12
(THE 101 student discount availabe in person at the Box Office.)
Group Rate: Call Box Office
"Waiting for Lefty"
By Clifford Odets
Directed by Dr. Kyle A. Thomas
Showings
7:30 p.m. March 2, 3, 7, 8
Venue
Balconey Theatre
Synopsis
In the depths of the Great Depression, the New York City cab drivers’ union meets to consider a strike for fair wages and better working conditions. Present is Harry Fatt, a corrupt union boss who actually represents the interests of the taxi fleet owners; Tom Clayton, a company “plant” hired to sow discord and break up the union; and armed guards to intimidate the rank-and-file members. Mysteriously absent is Lefty Costello, the elected leader of the workers who are struggling to feed their families. Has Lefty abandoned the cause, or has something more sinister prevented him from attending? The drivers’ plight is presented in a series of heart-wrenching vignettes that ignite a call for action. As Lefty’s fate is finally revealed, the drivers vote to unite and fight. Based on the New York Taxi Strike of 1934, "Waiting for Lefty" captures a moment in American history that still echoes today!
Tickets
Adult: $14
Senior: $12
MSU Student: $12
(THE 101 student discount availabe in person at the Box Office.)
Group Rate: Call Box Office
"In Vain"
Music and Lyrics by Sharon Kenny
Book by Cristina Pippa
Directed by
Showings
7:30 p.m. April 13-15
2:30 p.m. April 16
Venue
Coger Theatre
Synopsis
Seventeen-year-old Vivian has led a most sheltered life. The only child of eccentric Hollywood actress Madeline Wilde, Vivian has been hidden away in a gated mansion without mirrors, forbidden to see her own image. Following Madeline’s untimely death, Vivian’s stunning beauty is finally revealed to the world at her mother’s funeral. Award-winning celebrity photographer Andi Marco shoots a portrait that captures Vivian’s outward perfection, and Vivian makes a fateful wish to remain as young and beautiful as she is at that moment. As the years pass and her sins pile up, Vivian’s physical appearance remains eerily unchanged; however, the portrait, which she has hidden in her basement, has a life of its own! A witty new spin on Oscar Wilde’s gothic novel “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” "In Vain" satirizes pop culture’s obsession with youth, beauty and fame.
Don’t miss the WORLD PREMIERE of this exciting new musical!
Tickets
Adult: $24
Senior: $22
MSU Student: $22
(THE 101 student discount availabe in person at the Box Office.)
Group Rate: Call Box Office
Spring Dance: "Art in Motion"
Directed by Sarah Wilcoxon
Showings
7:30 p.m. May 4-6
2:30 p.m. May 7
Venue
To be announced
Synopsis
Artists throughout the ages have been fascinated by dance and have sought to capture its beauty, grace and energy. Perhaps this is because dance is such a sensory feast! If you think of a dance as a 3-D moving picture, the visual art elements of line, shape, color, texture, contrast and composition are all there — wonderfully animated by rhythm and music. Dance has a unique power to express ideas and emotions, from the most primal to the most ethereal, as the performers bring their canvas to life. Come and share the joy of "Art in Motion" as we present a gallery of vibrant, new works by our students, faculty and guest artists!
Tickets
Adult: $14
Senior: $12
MSU Student: $12
(THE 101 student discount availabe in person at the Box Office.)
Group Rate: Call Box Office