University Letter

Theatre Arts has its new line-up of productions and performances set for the 2012-2013 season.

This year, the department offers a season of comedy with an edge, kicking off with a poignant but charming family story centered on the lives of three sisters by the celebrated American playwright Beth Henley. Crimes of the Heart is guaranteed to have you laughing through tears as the three Magrath sisters work out their sibling rivalry.

The musical Urinetown takes on an urgent social concern with its focus on a water shortage, and does so through an engaging story of young lovers caught in a tangled web of political intrigue in this satirical musical comedy.

In February, Student Cabaret promises to delight and amaze with  talented students producing a variety of song, dance and original short plays to chase away the winter blues.

In April, Theatre Arts will present Much Ado About Nothing, in which Shakespeare’s wit and wisdom are revealed in two opposing views of love. A pair of young lovers, carried away by unbridled passion, plans a hasty marriage only to be thwarted by an eruption of rampant jealousy. Unlike the exuberant youths, a couple more experienced in the ways of the world proclaim they are far too cynical to submit to the folly of love. The two plots cross when a vicious scoundrel and a bumbling fool each add to the hilarity and, ultimately, force a resolution.

Please support Theatre Arts as a season ticket holder or Angel and celebrate theatre’s power to renew spirits and bring joy to lives.  Contact Kathleen McLennan at 777-2871 with questions.

-- David L. Dodds, media relations/writer and editor, University Relations, 777-5529, david.dodds@und.edu.