487 past events with the theater tag

Based on the stories by the Grimm Brothers
Adapted for the stage by Alison Gregory
Music by Hummie Mann
Directed by Donna Seage

Music Directed by Debbie Hill

Choreographed by Olivia Bullock

October 17, 18, 21-25 at 7:30 p.m. | October 19 at 2:30 p.m. | Korsgaard Dance Studio

When Billy the goat, Slim the pig, and Nell the cat overhear the Farmer and his Wife plotting to get rid of Donny the donkey, they rush to warn their friend. Dreamer that he is, Donny decides to escape and pursue his dream of becoming a famous musician in Brementown. Along the way, he’s joined by Minnie, a retired show dog, and later Nell, both eager to find a new future. As the mismatched group tries to make music together, their noisy efforts may not be music to the ears—but their journey is full of heart, humor, and second chances.

Produced by special arrangement with Plays for New Audiences.

Tickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

Get ready for a night of soul, passion, and the timeless music of Marvin Gaye, brought to life by L. Young’s powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence. From the smooth grooves of Let’s Get It On to the soul-stirring messages of What’s Going On, expect to sing, dance, and celebrate the legacy of one of music’s greatest icons. Co-starring pop sensation Crystal Starr as Tammi Terrell.

This is one soul train party you don’t wanna miss!

Based on the stories by the Grimm Brothers
Adapted for the stage by Alison Gregory
Music by Hummie Mann
Directed by Donna Seage

Music Directed by Debbie Hill

Choreographed by Olivia Bullock

October 17, 18, 21-25 at 7:30 p.m. | October 19 at 2:30 p.m. | Korsgaard Dance Studio

When Billy the goat, Slim the pig, and Nell the cat overhear the Farmer and his Wife plotting to get rid of Donny the donkey, they rush to warn their friend. Dreamer that he is, Donny decides to escape and pursue his dream of becoming a famous musician in Brementown. Along the way, he’s joined by Minnie, a retired show dog, and later Nell, both eager to find a new future. As the mismatched group tries to make music together, their noisy efforts may not be music to the ears—but their journey is full of heart, humor, and second chances.

Produced by special arrangement with Plays for New Audiences.

Tickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Muncie in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together. 

Out-of-work actor Daniel Hillard will do anything for his kids. After losing custody in a messy divorce, he creates the kindly alter ego of Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire in a desperate attempt to stay in their lives. As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father. A hysterical and heartfelt story about holding onto your loved ones against all odds, Mrs. Doubtfire is the musical comedy we need right now – one that proves we’re better together.  

With their concert entitled “PEACE,” the multi-Grammy® and Emmy Award®-winning SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR return to North America to perform a joyful program of South African freedom songs, traditional spirituals and some classics. The inspirational concert will also feature the spirited music of Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte, Peter Gabriel, Kate Bush, Leonard Cohen and more!

Formed in 2002, the Choir was created to celebrate the unique power of African gospel music and quickly established itself as a group that is “undeniably synchronized, appears unshakable, and simultaneously expresses universality and individuality” (San Francisco Classical Voice). Heralded by Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey, SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR excites audiences worldwide, uplifting the soul and spreading joy through its earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, brilliant costumes, and infectious spirit. It’s perfect for the entire family!

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.

One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows were seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.

Featuring her much loved songs, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall.

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

6 Guitars is a pitch perfect blend of music, comedy, and theater. Just 1 performer portrays 6 guitar-playing characters each representing their own style of music:

• Wes Tankerfield, a snobbish jazz master
• Michael Marsh, a 19-year-old rock prodigy
• Peter Winter-Jones, a sensitive folk musician
• Rupert Colt, a charming country songwriter
• Emmanuel Ortega, an eccentric classical wizard
• Tyrone Gibbons, a weary blues picking octogenarian

As each character shares the anecdotes and songs that define their relationship to music, the audience is treated to breathtaking musicianship, beautiful storytelling, and top-notch comedy. Audience interaction and improvised songs tailors each performance to any given crowd. 

World-class artists and musicians brought together in the Coffee and Cabernet Series. Experience these internationally renowned artists in the intimate setting of Pruis Hall and enjoy a selection of wine, craft beer or coffee while attending the performance. 

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

poster design by Studio165+

Written by B.J. Tindal
Original Dramaturgy by Maansi Sahay Seth
Directed by Lisa Gaye Dixon

November 15-16, 18-22 at 7:30 PM | November 22 at 2:30 PM | Recital Hall / AR 217

Goodnight, Tyler is a poignant and unexpectedly humorous ghost story about memory, grief, and the fight for control over a legacy. After Tyler Evans, a young Black man, is killed by a police officer, his ghost lingers—desperate to be remembered for his life, not just his death. As his best friend, fiancée, grandmother, and others grapple with their own versions of Tyler, tensions rise over who gets to define his story. This moving contemporary drama explores love, loss, and the personal and political weight of remembrance.

“Goodnight, Tyler” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.comTickets

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

General Public: $15 in advance, $17 at the door
Faculty/Staff/Students/Seniors: $12 in advance, $14 at the door

By Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Presented by Ball State's Department of Theatre and Dance

Choreographed by Susan Koper, Joseph Lyons, Audra Sokol, Roberta Wong, and Christie Zimmerman

The Nutcracker is the classic holiday tale as you’ve never seen it before—a dreamy collision of magic, mystery, and imagination. Clara’s beloved toy transforms into a valiant prince, whisking her from a war-torn living room to realms filled with snow, sweets, and surreal wonders. Each step of her journey blurs the line between fantasy and reality, revealing the strange beauty hidden beneath tradition. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score guiding the way, this reimagined Nutcracker becomes a wild, whimsical ride through the heart of childhood dreams.

The Ball State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Gregory Robbins, will play the score live.

By Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Presented by Ball State's Department of Theatre and Dance

Choreographed by Susan Koper, Joseph Lyons, Audra Sokol, Roberta Wong, and Christie Zimmerman

The Nutcracker is the classic holiday tale as you’ve never seen it before—a dreamy collision of magic, mystery, and imagination. Clara’s beloved toy transforms into a valiant prince, whisking her from a war-torn living room to realms filled with snow, sweets, and surreal wonders. Each step of her journey blurs the line between fantasy and reality, revealing the strange beauty hidden beneath tradition. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score guiding the way, this reimagined Nutcracker becomes a wild, whimsical ride through the heart of childhood dreams.

The Ball State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Gregory Robbins, will play the score live.

About

This Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of It’s a Wonderful Life is a heartwarming radio drama based on Frank Capra’s classic story. Condensed into about an hour, the production features rich narration, live sound effects, and expressive performances to tell the story of George Bailey—a man who, feeling overwhelmed by life’s burdens, is shown by his guardian angel how profoundly he has touched the lives of others. The radio play beautifully conveys themes of hope, community, and the power of one individual to make a difference—offering an intimate, nostalgic experience that feels both uplifting and deeply human through the magic of radio.
 
IPR Radio Dramas feature community and campus actors, musicians, and singers who, through their live performances, transport listeners to another time—evoking memories of shared experiences and recalling an era when imagination played a central role in entertainment. Live music and sound effects help recreate the authentic atmosphere of the Golden Age of Radio.
 
Audience members play a vital role in the radio drama experience by engaging with the story and reacting to the emotions conveyed through sound and performance.
 
Attendees should be seated by 7:30 p.m. and will enjoy a special pre-show program, including a live sound effects demonstration.
 
Directed by Matthew Reeder. Musical direction by Jim Rhinehart. Sound effects by Leo Blackmer.

Tickets

Tickets are sold through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall. Purchase options:

• ONLINE
• Phone: 765-285-8749
• In person: Monday through Friday from Noon to 5 p.m., or starting 1 hour before the performance at the performance venue

**Please note: As part of our commitment to sustainability, all College of Fine Arts tickets are paperless and are accessible via email confirmation. Your confirmation email contains your digital tickets which can be scanned at the door from your mobile device, or you can print your digital tickets at home to be scanned. There is no need to visit Will Call prior to the performance.

Parking

Parking is available in the McKinley Parking Garage (entrance on Ashland Avenue) located immediately south of Sursa Hall. Metered parking is available on the first floor of the garage until 7 p.m. at which time parking is free.