By: Halee Baehl—
MUNCIE, Ind. — “Swing!” brings its jazz-infused story told via song and dance to the University Theatre stage at 7:30 p.m. November 4, 5 and 8-12 with a 2:30 p.m. matinee November 6 and 13.
Without dialogue, the Tony nominated musical celebrates the Swing era of jazz that ruled the 1930s and ‘40s, featuring hits by artists of the era including Benny Goodman, William “Count” Basie, and Duke Ellington.
Students participating in the musical say they are excited to express themselves through the variety of jazz styles featured in the show.
“With jazz, there’s much more freedom to make the music your own,” said sophomore theatre major Wesley Byers. “I’ve had a lot of fun exploring musical possibilities not typically provided with the standard musical.”
“Swing!” is also a celebration of bringing together Ball State dance and musical theater students who’ve been paired up for this unique and acrobatic performance.
“It’s been amazing to combine dance and musical theatre students on this project and create such a fun, dynamic show,” said senior dance student Christie Bellish. “I love all of the swing partnering, especially the lifts and flips in the air.”
Tickets for “Swing!” are available for purchase the University Theatre Box Office, open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The cost is $18 for the general public and $15 for students, faculty, staff, and senior citizens. New this year for University Theatre Mainstage productions is a ticket price of $10 for children 12 and under. Contact the box office at 765-285-8747 or visit bsu.edu/theatre for more information.
(Left to Right): Christie Bellish, Senior Dance Major; Cody Thomas, Senior Dance Major. Photo provided.
