While the Department of Theatre and Dance season will look a little different this year, the high-quality, creative, and entertaining experiences you are accustomed to will not! The university has spent the summer months devising safe strategies, recommendations, and plans to welcome students back to campus while also considering ways that UWSP can stay engaged with the community. Throughout this process, the Department of Theatre and Dance has had to pivot in a new direction and reimagine a season that reflects more thoughtfully the changing landscape of our world. The department's faculty and staff are committed to offering a season where our students can share their talents and artistry with audiences. Though our audiences cannot be live this semester due to campus recommendations that prohibit large gatherings, I am thrilled to share that we have a remarkable virtual spring season planned. The projects are timely, personal, and outstanding examples of the creative energy and spirit of our department.
The Last Days Of Judas Iscariot*
February 26-28, 2021
By Stephen Adly Guirgis
Directed by Parke Fech
Virtual Opening Night Pre-Show Chat
February 26 at 7 p.m. (central) via Zoom
This play tells the story of the purgatorial trial to decide the ultimate fate of Judas Iscariot, whether he can be forgiven or condemned. This play shows the imagine childhood of Judas Iscariot, and has star testimony from key historical figures.
If Jesus forgave Peter, why not Judas?
If Jesus was all knowing, why condemn Judas?
The Last Days of Judas Iscariot PROGRAM
* Reading
The Melody Lingers On April 2-9, 2021
Music & Lyrics by Irving Berlin
Dialogue taken from the book by Mary Ellin Barrett
Script Continuity by Tom Briggs
Orchestrations and Vocal Arrangements by Donald Johnston
Conceived By Karin Baker
Directed by Mark Hanson
Music Directed by Sarah Wussow
Virtual Opening Night Pre-Show Chat
April 2 at 7 p.m. (central) via Zoom
"Irving Berlin has no place in American music. He is American music."
(Jerome Kern, Broadway/Hollywood Composer)
Over a period of five decades, Irving Berlin defined American popular music from Tin Pan Alley to Broadway, from Hollywood to tours of duty throughout Europe and the Pacific, the story of Irving Berlin is the story of American Popular Music in the 20thCentury.
The Melody Lingers On PROGRAM
Small Wonders April 23-30, 2021
By Rich Orloff
Directed by Stephen Trovillion Smith
Virtual Opening Night Pre-Show Chat
April 23 at 7 p.m. (central) via Zoom
A fun evening of short plays, both naughty and nice!
UWSP produces its first short play evening in 15 years! The actors play multiple characters that include two frustrated parents at Disneyland, some students from Buchanan High School for Exceptionally Bright Weirdos, and some desperate Bulgarians with a plot involving their American cousin. Some plays are funny, some are edgy but all are entertaining!
This performance contains mature language and themes inappropriate for young children.
Small Wonders PROGRAM
Danstage 2021 May 14-21, 2021
Virtual Opening Night Pre-Show Chat
May 14 at 7 p.m. (central) via Zoom
Gorgeous dancing, inspiring premieres!
Danstage 2021 introduces a new choreographic voice to the UWSP community with a premiere by new dance faculty member Sarah Olson. The evening also features new works by guest artist Pamela Luedtke and faculty members Michael Estanich and Jeannie Hill. Each choreographer explores new terrain with dances made specifically for the digital landscape.