Topic: College of Fine Arts
October 28, 2013
'42nd Street' characters, Julian Marsh and Peggy Sawyer
"42nd Street," a big, bold musical that celebrates the stuff dreams are made of, will make its way to Ball State University with a debut show at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at University Theatre. The musical also will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8-9 and 12-15, with a matinee scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and a special late performance at 8 p.m. Nov. 16.
"42nd Street is one of those musicals that, from an entertainment perspective, is as much fun as you can get," said the show's director, Bill Jenkins, chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance. Michael Worcel, an assistant professor of dance who performed in the original national tour of the show, will choreograph Ball State's production, while Ron Hellems, an assistant professor of musical theater, will serve as musical director.
"One of the things that make the show continue to stay popular is that the singing, dancing and overall exuberance of the actors in this kind of show never goes out of style," Jenkins said. "We are bringing many aspects to '42nd Street' that have always made it successful, but at the same time, trying to add our own touch. From a design and directing perspective, we will have some creative license with our interpretation."
The plot of "42nd Street" focuses on aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer and her aspirations to become a leading lady on stage. Jenkins said the musical's fast pace is keeping his student actors on their toes. "It gives students the opportunity to experience the kind of technique, talent and endurance necessary to perform in a show where you are constantly dancing and singing."
Tickets for the performance cost $18 for the general public, $17 for faculty and staff, $14 for senior citizens, and $12 for students. They are available from the University Theatre Box Office, open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour before each performance. Contact the box office at 765-285-8749 or visit www.bsu.edu/theatre for more information.
By Megan Fizer