University Theatre presents 'Kiss Me Kate'

KALAMAZOO—Western Michigan University theatre students will perform the musical comedy "Kiss Me Kate" April 11-20 in Shaw Theatre at the Gilmore Theatre Complex. The performances will be directed by guest artist Christopher George Patterson, who traveled from New York City for an eight-week residency on campus.

Purchase tickets online: wmutheatre.com

Performance schedule

• Thursday, April 11, 8 p.m.
• Friday, April 12, 8 p.m.
• Saturday, April 13, 8 p.m.
• Sunday, April 14, 2 p.m.
• Thursday, April 18, 8 p.m.
• Friday, April 19, 8 p.m.
• Saturday, April 20, 8 p.m.

Cole Porter’s Tony Award-winning musical has become one of the most beloved musical comedies of the century, including such musical favorites as "Another Op'nin, Another Show" and "I Hate Men." Love interests and co-stars Fred Graham and Lilli Vanessi go on a raucous journey in this delightful story.

Christopher George Patterson

Patterson began performing at the early age of 9. A native of New Jersey, he first studied under the tutelage of prima ballerina Pauline Goddard. He later studied with the legendary Buster Brown. At age 14 he started his own traveling performing troupe, Backstage Theatre Productions, where he created dance-driven performances for local audiences.

Patterson then began to direct and choreograph professionally for regional theatres including the Adirondack Theatre Festival, Depot Theatre, Oregon Cabaret Theatre and Cohoes Music Hall. He choreographed the 25th anniversary production of "The Wiz." He worked on Broadway in the dance department of Disney's "The Lion King," and also has created new musicals including "It Had To Be You" and "Life Is A Cabaret."

Tickets

All seating for "Kiss Me Kate" at Shaw Theatre is general admission. Tickets are $20, $18 for senior citizens and WMU employees, $5 for WMU students and $10 for all other students. They are available by calling (269) 387-6222, online at wmutheatre.com, or by visiting the Gilmore Theatre Complex or Miller Auditorium ticket offices. Group discounts are available by calling (269) 387-3227.

"Kiss Me Kate" is sponsored by Consumers Credit Union. Graduating musical theatre performance majors will provide entertainment following the April 12, 18, 19 and 20 performances.

For more information, contact Emily Duguay, University Theatre, at emily.duguay@wmich.edu or (269) 387-6222.