ÃÛѨÊÓƵ

ÃÛѨÊÓƵ Theatre's 2024-25 Season

ÃÛѨÊÓƵ Theatre’s 2024–25 season promises new 24–hour plays from students, an intriguing “whodunit” mystery in November, an epic quest to retrieve Zeus’ lightning bolt by 12–year–old Percy Jackson in April and a selection of Shakespearean scenes and monologues to complete the season in May.  

Sept. 7: “The 24 Hour Plays: ÃÛѨÊÓƵ Theatre”

Last year’s “The 24 Hour Plays” was so successful that the theatre program opted to repeat the process. Students will kick off the 2024–25 season by creating short one-acts over the course of a day. On Friday, Sept. 6, student playwrights, actors, directors and designers will gather to receive a writing prompt, then spend the next 24 hours in warp-speed collaboration. At 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, the theatre doors will open to the public. Admission is free and on a first-come, first-served basis. “The 24 Hour Plays®️” is presented under a license and with the participation of The 24 Hour Plays®️. 

Nov. 14-16, 21-23: “Death by Design”

In November, audiences will put on their detective hats as actors investigate the mysterious happenings at Cookham Manor in “Death by Design” by Rob Urbinati. Combining the wit of Noel Coward with the clever plotlines of an Agatha Christie mystery, the play examines what has happened to politician Walter Pierce when he visits the country manor of a famed playwright and his eccentric, overly dramatic wife. Rounded out with multiple zany characters, “Death by Design” promises an evening of intrigue, comedy, and suspense. Professor Janet Gupton will direct. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14–16 and Nov. 21-22; 2 p.m. Nov. 23. Tickets go on sale Oct. 30.

As part of the Lacroute Art Series at ÃÛѨÊÓƵ, New York City–based playwright Rob Urbinati will be in residence the first week of performances to work with the production team, visit classes, and join a post–show discussion about the inspirations for his myriad enticing plays. Prior to arriving on campus, Urbinati conducted an online 10–Minute playwriting workshop for aspiring ÃÛѨÊÓƵ student playwrights.

April 24-25, 27 and May 1-3: “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical”

April’s “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” boasts music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki and book by “Be More Chill” scribe Joe Tracz. Based on Rick Riordan’s popular novel of the same name, the musical follows 12–year–old Percy Jackson’s odyssey to keep the peace among the Greek gods and restore Zeus’ lightning bolt while discovering his own status as a demigod.   

The Hollywood Reporter says the musical provides an “excellent if irreverent introduction to Greek mythology that might persuade some kids to dig deeper.” Professor Lindsey Mantoan will direct. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. April 24-25 and May 1-3; 2 p.m. April 27. There will not be a performance on April 26. Tickets are on sale April 9. Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

May 15-16: “Shakespeare in the Courtyard”

In May, audiences will be treated to “Shakespeare in the Courtyard.” The Ford Hall Courtyard and the Arts Quad will play host to some of Shakespeare’s most memorable scenes, soliloquies, songs and sonnets. Audiences can expect tragic heroines, tortured heroes, swooning lovers, nastiest villains and loveable buffoons. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. May 15-16. Admission is free and on a first-come, first-served basis.