#BirdofMouth student blogger Kelsey Farrell is a sophomore journalism major.
Illinois State is home to a thriving arts scene within the College of Fine Arts. Whether you are interested in being part of one of the productions or just interested in some quality entertainment, the School of Theatre and Dance has got you covered!
Our campus has two great main locations for performances. The Center for the Performing Arts has a music hall-style theatre that seats up to 500. In the smaller Westhoff Theatre, audiences are seated on three sides and have a more intimate viewing experience.
So what types of performances are happening within the College of Fine Arts? Check out the shows the School of Theatre and Dance is putting on during the fall 2014 semester:
HAY FEVER BY NOEL COWARD
Westhoff Theatre
You think your home life is crazy? Meet the Bliss family. When each member of the family invites a houseguest over for the weekend—unbeknownst to everyone else—things quickly get out of hand. One of Coward’s finest works, this show will make you happy you might not see your family until Thanksgiving break.
IN THE NEXT ROOM BY SARAH RUHL
Center for the Performing Arts
In a prosperous post-Civil War town, Catherine Givings is fed up with life as a housewife. Her husband is a detached doctor, pioneering technology to treat so-called “hysterical” patients in a wholly unorthodox way. Breaking social norms, In the Next Room is full of surprises. This is definitely something you won’t learn in history class.
WATER BY THE SPOONFUL BY QUIARA ALEGRIA HUDES
Westhoff Theatre
You can’t always judge a person by their screen name. Opening with the story of a soldier returning from Iraq, Water by the Spoonful gradually weaves in the story of the chatroom he joins for support and companionship. In a show where everyone is identified by their online persona, the idea of friendship and support in the digital age is tested. Winner of a 2012 Pulitzer Prize, this play is a certified hit. You won’t mind turning off your phone for this show.
BY THE WAY, MEET VERA STARK BY LYNN NOTTAGE
Center for the Performing Arts
Meet Vera Stark: the African-American maid to a famous movie star in the 1930s. While Vera’s parts in films are scarce, she captures the hearts of millions in The Belle of New Orleans, an instant classic. Blending social commentary with broad humor and mystery, By the Way, Meet Vera Stark demands to be seen by everyone, especially sociology and history majors.
The Fall Dance Concert is November 19-22, 2014.
FALL DANCE CONCERT
Westhoff Theatre
Held in the school’s “black box” theatre, the dance concert uses the intimate space to showcase some of the school’s biggest talents. Get an up-close seat to all the kicks, spins, and leaps in a space that is visually stunning, while also supporting a group of incredibly talented dancers. Jazz, ballet, and modern dance will be showcased. Think Dance Moms, minus the drama.
The School of Theatre and Dance can make any weekend a little more artsy. Heck, some teachers even offer extra credit if you attend a performance. Extra credit, extra culture—what more could you ask for?
#BirdofMouth student blogger Kelsey Farrell is a sophomore journalism major. Read more #BirdofMouth posts.
