From hilarious to poignant and anywhere in between, the theater productions of this season touch upon topics that anyone can relate to.
Touring shows presented by performers from Broadway and abroad along with productions presented by IUP students and faculty members combine to offer theater-goers a season with humor, honesty, music, and heart.
View the Events Calendar for Lively Arts
August 28–30 and September 4–6 at 8:00 p.m., August 31 and September 7 at 2:00 p.m.; Waller Hall Mainstage, IUP Performing Arts Center
One of Shakespeare’s most magical tales as you have never seen it before—as a 1930s circus show. This production promises to be exhilarating, fun, and full of wonder for the whole family.
November 11 at 7:00 p.m.; Fisher Auditorium, IUP Performing Arts Center
From the exotic Far East comes the world’s most riveting acrobatic troupe whose astonishing acts inspire the same awe and wonder in people today as they did a millennium ago. The National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China is among Asia’s most acclaimed ensembles, whose artists have won countless international awards and competitions. For seven decades, this company has been thrilling young and old alike with dazzling acts of tumbling, juggling, contortion, balancing, and high-flying athleticism.
November 6–8 and 12–15 at 8:00 p.m., November 9 at 2:00 p.m.; Waller Hall Mainstage, IUP Performing Arts Center
Media has claimed the culture. Books are outlawed. Owning one is a crime only flame can punish, and it is Montag’s job to light the match. But when a chance encounter sparks doubt, Montag embarks on a journey that may consume more than words, more than lives. Burn enough books, and some minds will catch fire.
January 20 at 8:00 p.m.; Fisher Auditorium, IUP Performing Arts Center
When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place cops are sure she won’t be found—a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and an uptight Mother Superior. Sister Act features an original Alan Menken/Glenn Slater score with a vast inspiration of musical styles from Motown, soul, and funk to great big disco anthems and Barry White-inspired musical comedy.
February 19–21 and 25–28 at 8:00 p.m., February 22 at 2:00 p.m.; Waller Hall Mainstage, IUP Performing Arts Center
Before heading off to war in Iraq, Casey Johnson neatly organizes her life into a box of lists, envelopes, and registration forms for her son’s activities. Months later, she returns to Western Pennsylvania forever changed, with deep psychological scars that no amount of arranging seems to be able to fix. Tammy Ryan’s poignant Soldier’s Heart shines a light on the struggles facing woman warriors.
April 16–18 at 8:00 p.m. and April 19 at 2:00 p.m.; Fisher Auditorium, IUP Performing Arts Center
When the Baker and his wife learn they have been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door, they embark on a journey for special objects to break the spell. Along the way, they meet up with an assembly of well-known Brothers Grimm characters, including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Jack (of beanstalk fame). Into the Woods contains some violence and scenes that may not be appropriate for younger children.
May 4 at 8:00 p.m.; Fisher Auditorium, IUP Performing Arts Center
Filled with high-octane dancing, songs that perfectly capture the era, and an absorbing tale of fame and forbidden love, Memphis offers soaring emotion and roof-raising rock ‘n’ roll. Memphis takes place in the smoky halls and underground clubs of the segregated ’50s, where a young white DJ named Huey Calhoun falls in love with everything he shouldn’t: rock and roll and an electrifying black singer, Felicia Farrell.
Lizzie Borden
October 19–22 and 25–28, Theater-by-the-Grove
Kun-Yang Lin Dancers
October 17, Ovations!
James Innes: A Retrospective
September 9–December 9, University Museum