University Theatre to launch season with virtual performances | And this semester, all Department of Theatre and Dance performances will be staged virtually.
Youngstown State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance opens its 2020-21 season on Friday, Sept. 25 with the Tennessee Williams classic, “The Glass Menagerie.” This semester, all Department of Theatre and Dance performances will be staged virtually.
University Theatre will mark its 57th season. Productions include a drama, a musical, a cabaret-style performance and “Ten-Minute Plays,” a student-centered initiative.
“We are so pleased to be able to offer quality theater and musical performances for the community especially during these difficult times. The dedication and hard work of our students, faculty, and staff is what makes all of this possible as we shift from live, in-person performances to the virtual, on-demand format,” said Stephanie Smith, acting co-director, School of Performing Arts.
The fall semester includes:
“The Glass Menagerie” – The play is a semi-autobiographical account of Tennessee Williams’ early days in 1930s St. Louis. “The Glass Menagerie” tells the story of a family desperate to break free of the burdens of their past and present. Each character escapes into their own personal “glass menagerie” to elude the pain of their own – and each other’s – existence. Performances dates and times: 7:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 25; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 27; 7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 2; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3; and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 4. The play will be directed by Matthew Mazuroski.
“Elegies: A Song Cycle” – Written by the Tony Award-winning lyricist and composer William Finn, “Elegies” addresses memory and loss with compassion and humor. The show will be directed by Dr. Maria Fenty Denison, with music direction by Amanda Beagle. In addition, guest performers Maureen Collins and James McClellan will join YSU students. Performance dates and times: 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 13; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 15; 7:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 20; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21; and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 22.
Ticket prices are general admission. Fee: single viewer, $10; general admission, group viewing/watch party, $25; YSU student and YSU faculty and staff, free with inclusion of banner I.D. Patrons may purchase tickets for both productions beginning Tuesday, Sept. 1.
“Chillin’ in a Winter Wonderland: An Evening of Seasonal Jazz and Pop Tunes” – This cabaret-style event showcases students in the Musical Theatre program. The performance is organized by Dr. Maria Fenty Denison and features favorite seasonal music. 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4 on YouTube. Free.
“Ten Minute Plays” – Organized by Matthew Mazuroski, ”Ten-Minute Plays” showcases student directors and actors in workshop productions. The directors explore the foundations of storytelling and develop their skills in working with actors on innovative scripts. 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 6 on YouTube. Free.
Contributions to the Theatre & Dance Giving Program help support faculty, staff, and students as they continue to produce innovative, creative, and evocative theater for the entire community. Call Stephanie Smith at 330-941-3632 for more information about giving opportunities.
More information is available by calling the Office of Community Engagement and Events at 330-727-7514.
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