Best 2014-2015 College Productions In Minnesota
Productions created and performed by college students are often the most entertaining and creative theater experiences for the lover of performing arts. Not only do you get to enjoy up-and-coming talent, but the price of a college production supports the continued growth of the program. Students work hard to reveal a production of the highest caliber since they know they will be representing their educational institution and demonstrating what years of hard work have developed. Whether you prefer a play, musical or instrumental concert, colleges and universities throughout the state will be sure to have something for everyone.
"Legally Blonde: The Musical"
University of Minnesota Duluth
Marshall Performing Arts Center
1215 Ordean Court
Duluth, MN 55812
(218) 726-8561
www.d.umn.edu
Date: Dec. 4-13, 2014
Based on the popular and wildly entertaining film of the same name, "Legally Blonde" had been adapted into a musical for those who can't get enough of Elle Woods. Ms. Woods is a fashion-conscious blonde who courageously navigates Harvard Law School to become a likable fixture in the legal system. University of Minnesota students at the Duluth campus will help bring this Broadway production to the Midwest stage. Tickets for this production are reasonably priced and offer the guarantee of a great evening.
"Cymbeline"
Kelsey Theater
St. Olaf College
1520 St. Olaf Ave.
Northfield, MN 55057
(507) 786-2222
www.stolaf.edu
Date: Feb. 12-15, 2015
One of William Shakespeare's lesser known tragedies, "Cymbeline" tells the story of an ancient king and the secret marriage of his daughter, Imogen, to a member of the king's court. "Cymbeline" will be performed in 2015 by the performing arts department at St. Olaf College. This challenging masterpiece is sure to be well received by the Northfield community and any visitors who wish to travel for the performance. St. Olaf's theater department is well known for churning out talent in the Midwest and their performance of "Cymbeline" will be sure to showcase that talent.
"The Nutcracker"
Ted Paul Theatre
Minnesota State University Mankato
320 Maywood Ave.
Mankato, MN 56001
(507) 389-6661
www.vendini.com
Date: Dec. 13-14, 2014
One of the greatest holiday traditions in the United States is "The Nutcracker" ballet. This Tchaikovsky masterpiece has entertained audiences of all ages for over a century. The performing arts department of Minnesota State University has committed to taking on this important project and delivering the story of Clara and her nutcracker prince. Support the university and its performing arts program while enjoying a magical Christmas tradition.
"The Importance Of Being Earnest"
Gustavus Adolphus College
800 W. College Ave.
St. Peter, MN 56082
(507) 933-7590
www.gustavus.edu
Date: Feb. 19-22, 2015
Oscar Wilde's famous and clever play will be performed this season at Gustavus Adolphus College. "The Importance of Being Earnest" has its own important place in classic American plays and masterpieces frequently studied by students of the theater. Although it was written and originally performed in the 19th century, the witty dialogue and awkward social situations portrayed in "The Importance of Being Earnest" are still relevant and humorous today.
"A Midsummer Night's Dream"
Augsburg College
2211 Riverside Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55454
(612) 330-1257
www.augsburg.edu
Date: Oct. 31 – Nov. 9, 2014
Every theater student should be required to study and perform at least one Shakespeare play throughout their college career. This year, the students of Augsburg College, a private institution in Minneapolis, have worked hard to be able to present "A Midsummer Night's Dream" to the community. One of William Shakespeare's most familiar and popular comedies, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" presents a challenge for performers and producers of the theater. The actors will transport the audience to a magical forest where the fairies of the land play pranks on unsuspecting humans. Enjoy the talent and time taken to produce this show and have fun watching one of Shakespeare's most frequently performed plays.
Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for eight years. She loves covering all things Minnesota and her work can be found on Examiner.com.
