AR217 is in the Fine Arts Building.
Stages
Directed by Dr. Philip McAdoo and David Taylor Little
- April 17-18, 22-26 at 7:30 p.m.
- April 19 at 2:30 p.m.
Stages is an inclusive and collaborative production that welcomes artists of all forms—whether your medium is dance, music, song, visual art, or any other mode of creative expression. This production invites participants from across the Department of Theatre and Dance and the broader Ball State community to bring their unique voices and perspectives to the stage. In Stages, cast members will have the opportunity to devise, share stories and experiences, and blend their talents with those of their peers. The goal is to create a rich tapestry of expression that celebrates the diversity of human experience and explores the impacts of recent government legislation.
Rooted in the exploration of identity and contemporary social issues, Stages delves into themes that impact the lives of individuals who may feel on the margins and touches on topics such as gender, race, sexuality, and societal expectations. It is a space where lived experiences—whether deeply personal or reflective of larger contemporary social issues—are brought to light, allowing for dialogue and connection through art. Stages aims to create a welcoming environment where every participant can share stories and transform the stage into a space of belonging, understanding, and shared humanity. This is your Stage—a place to be seen, heard, and valued.
Content Warnings:
- Mention/Implication of Alcohol and Drug Use
- Talks of Self-harm and suicide
- Talks of eating disorders, body hatred
- Homophobic Slurs
- Talks of Racism
- Talks of Transphobia
- Talks of Homophobia
- Mature Language
Past Productions
English Made Simple and Time Flies
By David Ives
Directed by Ben Dostalek
- November 16-18, 20-21, 23 at 7:30 p.m.
English Made Simple: A young man and woman meet at a party, and their immediate romantic attraction is translated into comically unromantic grammar lessons as they struggle to free themselves from the banal constrictions of party talk.
Time Flies: Two lonely but sweet young mayflies meet at a pond and really hit it off. Unfortunately, Horace and May watch a nature program on this first night out and discover they have a lifespan of only one day – and their lives are half over.
Seagulls
By Caryl Churchill
Directed by Audrey Walters
- November 16, 18-19, 21-22 at 7:30 p.m.
- November 17 at 2:30 p.m.
A department store clerk has recently become famous for her telekinetic powers after nabbing a shoplifter by willing the item he stole right up out of his bag. On her way to Harvard for scientific testing, her powers desert her. Is this the result of meeting an odd fan? Perhaps her awareness that now she is a commodity to be exploited is responsible? Or is it that strange, glowing box with a rocket on the side?
“Seagulls” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
A Betrothal
By Lanford Wilson
Directed by Tyler Robertson
- November 17, 19-20, 22-23 at 7:30 p.m.
- November 17 at 2:30 p.m.
A warm-hearted and humorous study of two fanatical iris-breeders who meet at a flower show. Annoyed and disappointed that their wonderful creations have been so rudely ignored by the judges, they eventually pool their anger and resources resulting in the birth of an exciting new project – the creation of a cross-breed of their two would-be champions which would surely rock the horticultural world!
This Property is Condemned
By Tennessee Williams
Directed by Lily Marcotte
- February 1-3, 5-6, 8 at 7:30 p.m.
A play that examines the harsh realities of isolation and longing in a small Southern town. In a series of poignant and evocative dialogues, This Property is Condemned captures the bittersweet essence of dreams and the inescapable weight of past traumas.
“This Property is Condemned” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
THIS PROPERTY IS CONDEMNED is presented by special arrangement with the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee.
Summer at the Lake
By Tennessee Williams
Directed by Ryan Goldberg
- February 1, 3-4, 6-7 at 7:30 p.m.
- February 2 at 2:30 p.m.
A play that examines the delicate complexities of family relationships and the passage of time. In a series of tender and reflective scenes, Summer at the Lake captures the fleeting beauty of moments shared and the enduring impact of memories.
“Summer at the Lake” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
SUMMER AT THE LAKE is presented by special arrangement with the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee.
The Dearest of Friends
By Horton Foote
Directed by Leslie Gonzalez
- February 2, 4-5, 7-8 at 7:30 p.m.
- February 2 at 2:30 p.m.
A play that examines the intricate bonds of friendship and the shifting dynamics of trust and loyalty. In a series of compelling and heartfelt interactions, The Dearest Friends captures the profound connections and underlying tensions that define our closest relationships.