By: Sarah Jenkins, Managing Director, Department of Theatre and Dance—
“It deals with relationships and how we struggle to find the right person to be with,” said Bill Jenkins, the department chair and the musical’s director. “The script it funny, smart, and witty. I think it’s the kind of show that, no matter what age you are, you can find something to identify with in it.”
Set in Sweden in the year 1900, the musical is based on the Ingmar Bergman film “Smiles of a Summer Night.” With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, the play focuses on actress Desirée Armfeldt and her web of affairs with the men who love her. They all embark on a getaway at Desirée’s mother’s estate, resulting in blossoming romance and surprising second chances.
The music in the show will be co-directed by Johnna Tavianini and Sean Mills and choreographed by Michael Worcel. The set design is by alumnus Kevin Depinet, who has had a very successful scenic design career based in Chicago but also has design credits on Broadway, the West End, and Las Vegas.
“It’s beautiful in terms of the music, the costumes, the set,” Jenkins said. “The talent of our students and the way that they handle this very difficult material is exceptional.
“I’m proud to work with these students and faculty on this show. It’s one that truly shows us how far the department has come, with the sophisticated work of our students and the expertise of our faculty.”
Tickets cost $18 for the general public and $15 for faculty, staff, students, and seniors. The University Theatre Box Office is open Monday through Friday, from noon to 5 p.m. and one hour before all performances. Contact the box office at 765-285-8749 or boxoffice@bsu.edu. Tickets are also available at bsu.edu/theatre.
About Ball State
Founded in 1918 and located in Muncie, Ball State University is one of Indiana’s premier universities and an economic driver for the state. Ball State’s 22,500 students come from all over Indiana, the nation, and the world. The 790-acre campus is large enough to accommodate first-rate facilities and 19 NCAA Division I sports, but our welcoming and inclusive campus is small enough to ensure the friendliness, personal attention, and access that are the hallmarks of the University. Destination 2040: Our Flight Path establishes Ball State’s ambitious goals for our second century. We Fly!
