University Theatre announces 2015-16 performance season
LAWRENCE — The upcoming University Theatre season deals firsthand with current events and social issues with shows addressing teen domestic violence, riots and feminism – not to mention a little humor and a Broadway musical. Making a strong statement about the values of theatre with diversity as an overarching theme, the season is an invitation for discussion and revelation by the community.
“Whenever art deals with issues getting attention today, it is, by its very nature, working close to the edge,” said Dennis Christilles, University Theatre artistic director and associate theatre professor. “It is operating very closely to the fluid borders between art and reality, and that can be exciting.”
This season is an invitation for discussion and revelation by the community. One highlight is “Johanna: Facing Forward,” a new play that will be produced for only the second time and will be directed by playwright Tlaloc Rivas.
“Theatre is, and always has been, a public forum that shapes the character and destiny of all communities – local, national and international,” Christilles said. “'Johanna: Facing Forward' is a perfect example of how theatre can help shape our cultural conversations as it explores one woman’s struggle to end violence against women.”
Tickets are on sale now for all shows at kutheatre.com or by calling 785-864-3982. Season tickets for all seven shows are available for $105.
The 2015-2016 season:
“Detroit '67,” by Dominique Morisseau
Directed by Zach Sudbury
Oct. 2, 3, 4*, 6, 7, 8
William Inge Memorial Theatre
“Johanna: Facing Forward,” by Tlaloc Rivas
Directed by Tlaloc Rivas
Oct. 16, 17, 18*, 23, 24, 25*
Crafton-Preyer Theatre
“A Doll's House,” by Henrik Ibsen, adapted by Frank McGuinness
Directed by Peter Zazzali
Nov. 14, 15*, 19, 20, 21, 22*
Stage Too!
“Reckless” by Craig Lucas
Directed by James L. Dick
Dec. 4, 5, 6*, 7, 8, 10
William Inge Memorial Theatre
“The Rehearsal & The Hypochondriac” by Molière, adapted by Mechele Leon
Directed by Mechele Leon
Feb. 26, 27, 28*, March 4, 5, 6*, 2016
Crafton-Preyer Theatre
“Little Women – The Broadway Musical”
Book by Allan Knee, music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein
Based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott
Directed by Amy Anders Corcoran
April 8, 9, 10*, 15, 16, 17*
Crafton-Preyer Theatre
“Welcome to Arroyo's” by Kristoffer Diaz
Directed by Nicole Hodges Persley
April 29, 30, May 1*, 3, 4, 5
William Inge Memorial Theatre
Unless noted, all performances are at 7:30 p.m. or *2:30 p.m. matinees.
For more information on the University Theatre, visit www.KUTheatre.com or follow @KUTheatre on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.