This fall, the Illinois State University School of Theatre, Dance, and Film will take audiences on a journey through seven years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic is written by Matt Cox. The production is directed by M.F.A. directing candidate Emily Grimany.
Audiences may be familiar with a certain boy wizard, but this is not his story. Puffs follows the story of Wayne, Megan, Oliver, and their fellow Puffs and their seven years at school. The Puffs are the focus of this story, and these lovable underdogs may feel like outcasts, but ultimately may just become the heroes. Grimany felt that this message was important to share.
“I wanted to direct this show because, like Wayne, I also struggled to feel like the hero of my own story. It took me a long time to realize that while I may be a secondary character to most of the world, I am important to people in my inner circle,” said Grimany. “This is what Wayne learns in Puffs, and I think it is a valuable lesson for everyone to learn and embrace.”
Audiences will enjoy this heartwarming story performed in a sketch-comedy style. Playwright Matt Cox comes from an improvisation background, and even includes opportunities for improvisation in the script. In rehearsals, Grimany spent time building a cohesive ensemble and allowed for the cast members to build a fun world together. This approach only strengthens the comedy in the production. Audiences should expect a fast-paced, hilarious production that is similar to something you might see on Saturday Night Live or at Second City.
Puffs will be performed at Westhoff Theatre on November 1-2 and 6-9 at 7:30 p.m. as well as on November 3 at 2 p.m. The runtime is approximately 110 minutes with one intermission.
Tickets can be purchased in person at the Center for the Performing Arts Box Office on the campus of Illinois State University, by calling (309) 438-2535, or online.
If you need accommodations to fully participate in this program, please contact the Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at (309) 438-2535. Please allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.
