University Theatre announces 2011-12 season
by Tonya Durlach
April 11, 2011 | WMU News
WMU's Gilmore Theatre Complex
KALAMAZOO--University Theatre at Western Michigan University will bring world-class guest artists, provocative dramas, hit musicals and award-winning comedies to the stage in its upcoming 105th season.
Subscription packages for the 2011-12 theatre season are on sale now, and those who order by Saturday, April 23, will receive a free bonus ticket. Order by calling (269) 387-6222. Subscription details are available online.
University Theatre's fall 2011 program
- "References to Salvador Dali Make Me Hot"
Sept. 22-Oct. 2
José Rivera paints an abstract world where cats parley with coyotes, people confer with the moon and the neighbors are friendly. "References to Salvador Dali Make Me Hot" tells the story of the erratic life of an army wife who has become estranged from her husband. As both reach for each other, their ideals push them apart in this dark drama that puts the two worlds of fantasy versus reality to the test.
- "Blithe Spirit"
Oct. 6-16
In Noël Coward's witty comedy, "Blithe Spirit," a novelist arranges for a séance in order to collect material for his new book. Ironically and unfortunately for him, the ghost of his first wife is accidentally summoned--and she is not happy. Determined and willing to sabotage his current marriage, chaos is bound to unfold when a ghost is not on your side.
- "The Rocky Horror Show"
Oct. 28-29
This production marks a new collaboration as Miller Auditorium and the WMU Department of Theatre co-produce for two nights only at Miller Auditorium. Jump into the time warp with Richard O'Brien's classic rock musical following the story of a young couple whose car breaks down in front of the castle of Dr. Frank N. Furter, a sweet transvestite from Transylvania. Looking for some hospitality and maybe even a phone, the pair gets more than they bargained for moments after setting two feet onto the premise. "The Rocky Horror Show" is not included in subscription packages.
- "August: Osage County"
Nov. 10-20
Playwright Tracy Letts rips apart the heart of a highly dysfunctional and heavily medicated modern American family in this Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning dramatic comedy.
- "Late Night Broadway"
Dec. 1-3
Join the graduating seniors of WMU's renowned Music Theatre Performance program for "Late Night Broadway," a classy cabaret evening of New York show tunes with a special Broadway guest star.
University Theatre's spring 2012 program
- "Never the Sinner"
Jan. 26-Feb. 5
A case of epic proportions is being investigated in this courtroom drama that tells the true story of Leopold and Leob. John Logan's "Never the Sinner" digs deep into the minds of two rich young men who decide to plot the perfect crime. In the Chicago murder trial of the 1920s that coined the phrase "crime of the century," their attorney Clarence Darrow stated, "I can see sin in all the world. And I may well hate that sin, but never the sinner."
- "The Tender Land"
Feb. 16-19
Through the music of Aaron Copland, "The Tender Land" tells the picturesque story of a soon-to-be graduate who falls in love with an ill-reputed drifter staying with her family. Searching for freedom, commitment and adventure, both yearn to be together. But, delicate circumstances loom close as this coming-of-age tale unfolds in the heartland of America. This production marks a returning collaboration between the WMU School of Music and the Department of Theatre.
- "The Cure for Love"
March 15-25
WMU theatre professor Jay Berkow writes a flirty farce about an abandoned affair and how a prestigious family tries to find a cure for love. With mistresses, a fallen angel and eccentric characters, this family gets more than they bargained for. Be among the first to see this bawdy period comedy, as it makes its regional and Midwest premiere.
- "Tony 'n' Tina's Wedding" dinner comedy
March 30-April 15
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Vitale cordially invite you to "Tony 'n' Tina's Wedding." After all, the coolest thing to do after high school is get married. With as many laughs as there are Italian stereotypes, this big fat Italian wedding will have you feeling like you are a member of the family--and thankful that you're not. Show includes dinner and wedding cake. Subscription price does not include dinner. Contact the box office at (269) 387-6222 for more information on subscriber pricing for this event.
- "Hairspray"
April 12-21
Go back to the 60s with the heart-warming, Tony Award-winning musical, "Hairspray." This show follows Tracy Turnblad, a big girl, with big hair, big dance moves and an even bigger heart, as she becomes an overnight teenage sensation by using music and dance to conquer racial divides. Music is by Marc Shaiman, with lyrics by Scott Whittman.
For more information, visit University Theatre online or contact Emily Duguay at emily.duguay@wmich.edu or (269) 387-3227.
