09/18/17
HAYS, Kan. - For more than 50 years, the Fort Hays State University Department of Music and Theatre has been entertaining audiences with lively and engaging productions, and the 2017-2018 theatre season will be no exception.

Director Tomme Williams spends hours reading over scripts to find the perfect pieces to accommodate both actors and audiences.

"I read through so many works, it can be hard to find pieces I get excited about," said Williams. "This season, I've gone with pieces that are more outside-the-box than what we've done in the past."

The year will start with the musical "Company" at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Oct. 4, Oct. 5 and Oct. 6. A matinee performance will be at 2:30 on Sunday, Oct. 8. All performances are in Felten-Start Theatre in Malloy Hall.

"Company" is a fresh and original take on marriage, commitment, friendship and loneliness. The original Broadway production was nominated for 14 Tony Awards and won six, including Best Musical, Best Direction of a Musical and Best Music and Book.

The work has been praised for its frankness, sophistication and courage in portraying a bitter and honest of love and marriage.

Following the musical will be "The Cheery Orchard" at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Nov. 9, Nov. 10 and Nov. 11. A matinee performance will be at 2:30 on Sunday, Nov. 12, in Felten-Start.

The drama follows an aristocratic Russian family as they search for home and identity after losing their estate.

This season continues with Noel Coward's comedy, "Present Laughter," at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 1, March 2 and March 3, in Felten-Start. A matinee performance will be at 2:30 on Sunday, March 4.

The romantic comedy is set in 1930's London and follows pampered actor Gary Essendine as he confronts his midlife crisis. The show has been performed all over the world and has had four Broadway revivals, the most recent of which was nominated for three Tony awards and won Best Actor.

The season will end with the FHSU Opera at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 6, and a matinee performance at 2:30 Sunday, April 8. The opera has yet to be announced, but past performances have ranged from Mozart to Bernstein. Dr. Joseph Perniciaro, assistant professor of music and theatre, will direct, and the FHSU orchestra will accompany.

"We are proud to remain one of the local community's vital and cultural assets and most exciting entertainment values," said Williams. "I hope everyone comes out to see our shows and enjoys them as much as I do."

The tickets are affordable at $15 for the general public and $10 for seniors and students. Season tickets cost $50 for the general public, $30 for FHSU students and $25 for senior citizens, saving ticket holders an average of $10 per show and allowing them to reserve their seats. Season tickets are on sale now.

Patrons can also purchase all-event passes for $125, which gives admission to more than 30 Music and Theatre Department events.

For more information, call 785-628-4533 or email fhsu.musicandtheatre.boxoffice@gmail.com.