Topic: College of Fine Arts
September 19, 2018
Department of Theatre and Dance students prepare for the opening of Green Day’s American Idiot during technical rehearsals.
Music fans and theater enthusiasts alike can experience an alternative rock group’s album through a story of self-discovery in The Department of Theatre and Dance’s season opener, “Green Day’s American Idiot,” which opens at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 21 at University Theatre.
Additional shows are Sept. 22 and 25-29, all at 7:30 p.m., and Sept. 23 and 29-30, all at 2:30 p.m.
The two-time Tony Award-winning musical uses Green Day’s “American Idiot” album to tell the story of fictional characters Johnny, Tunny and Will in their struggle to find meaning in a post-9/11 world. They flee the constraints of their hometown for the thrills of city life yet quickly find that their paths are scattered.
David Little, theatre generalist lecturer and director of the production, said that Green Day fans will recognize the music, but might notice a twist to the typical arrangements.
“There are some great vocal arrangements that have been written for this stage version,” Little said. “There have also been some songs incorporated from albums other than ‘American Idiot,’ which could be a surprise for people who know the band’s entire discography.”
Audience members can anticipate a hybrid production with theater and rock concert elements. Loud, punk-rock music from a live band meets on stage with a “great looking production in terms of design,” according to Little.
Tickets are available at the University Theatre Box Office from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or online. The cost is $18 for the general public and $15 for students, faculty, staff and senior citizens.
For more information, call the box office at 765-285-8749 or visit its website.