Spring 2019 MSU Theatre production preview

Peter and the Starcatcher, Macbeth, and more  ring in the new year

Lucas Torborg
A&E Editor

Minnesota State University, Mankato’s Theatre Department continues their school season with five new productions for the spring semester.

The semester will consist of five theatre productions, in addition to a dance concert that will be held the first week of May to cap it all off. According to Paul Hustoles, the Chair and producer of Theatre Department, four of the five shows will be plays the department has never done before, which is very exciting for everyone involved.

The four new shows for the department consist of “Peter and the Star catcher”, and the musical “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” which are main stage productions in the Ted Paul Theatre. The other new shows consist of “Mothers and Sons” and “Brain People” which will be the productions for the studio season this semester in the Andreas Theatre.

The sixth show, “Macbeth”, may have been performed by the department many times in the past however, this performance will bring a fresher, more original take to the Shakespeare classic. “Macbeth” will be brought to life on the Ted Paul Theatre February 14 through the 16 as well as the 21 through the 24.

“Macbeth” is being directed by Heather Hamilton who traditionally brings a feminist viewpoint to works originating in a male dominated world.  Look for a very strong Lady Macbeth to light that world on fire,” Hustoles said.

“Peter and the Starcatcher” will be the first play of the semester. Directed by Paul Hustoles, based on a book by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, the play focuses on Peter Pan, Mrs. Darling, Tinker Bell and Hook in a prequel to the original story everyone knows and loves.

“It has a stunning cast featuring junior Ryan Feist as Peter and senior Zoe Hartigan as the Starcatcher, both are BFA Acting majors and seasoned veterans of our stage.  The cast is intimate, only 13, but the set, designed by 2nd year MFA candidate Ben Kramer, is one of the most spectacular we have ever had in the Andreas Theatre,” Hustoles said.

Peter and the Starcatcher will be playing in Andrea’s theatre January 31 through February 3 as well as February 6 through 10.

It is evident that there are some great shows to look forward to this semester. However, there is much more going on besides for the upcoming productions. The Ted Paul Theatre’s $500,000 renovation has just finished making for a better a viewing experience for the audience and better place to learn for the students.

Students who could not afford tickets in the past should be happy to learn that ticket prices have been decreased. Students can buy a pass for all 6 shows including the dance concert for $50. Tickets can be purchased online at www.mnsu.edu/theatre/season/ or at the box office located in the lobby of the Earley Center for Performing Arts on the campus.

Feature photo courtesy of the MSU Theatre Department.