The school of Theatre here at Florida State University is top notch in its field. This is their 44th year of bringing the best of musicals, dramas and student showcases to the Tallahassee area. This season focuses on how we define family, luck, fate, mischief and loyalty. The 2017–2018 season has six plays and musicals to enjoy. I went and saw Guys and Dolls last night, and I was blown away. These students put their heart and soul into their performance, and the talent is amazing. Many alumni from FSU’s school of Musical theater have gone on to prestigious careers in acting, Broadway and a multitude of professions in the theatre. I strongly recommend coming to see a show; student-ticket nights are only 5 dollars and I promise you will not be disappointed. Here is a list of some of the shows to enjoy this season:
1. Guys and Dolls
Set back in New York’s roaring 1920s, this high action musical is filled with gamblers, missionaries and sassy showgirls. This classic Broadway musical, which many think is the greatest musical ever created, follows the love story of two unlikely couples. A notorious gambler attempts to make a missionary in town fall in love with him, in hopes of winning a bet. Meanwhile, a showgirl, tired of waiting for a wedding, seeks to marry her gambling fiancé of 14 years. This musical is hilarious and so well done. Many of the songs are well known, so it was fun to sing along. This musical just finished its run at the Fallon Theater on Oct. 29.
2. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead
Follow the story of Hamlet from the perspective of his two (less famous) friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, as they stumble along. Trouble is, neither of them has the slightest idea of what is really going on. Comic moments unfold into surreal antics and misadventures as the duo discover their inevitable fate.
3. Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat
We all know the children’s book The Cat in the Hat — now see it on the big stage. When Sally and her little brother Nick invite the Cat in the Hat to come inside while their mother is away, strange and crazy things occur! I am excited to see this show, the costumes and stage decorations will be incredible. This plays Nov. 16-19 at the Fallon Theater!
4. The Addams Family
Everyone’s favorite creepy and wacky family is back in this new ghostly musical comedy. The Addams family is facing their biggest nightmare yet — Wednesday is getting married! Wednesday begs Gomez to have “One Normal Night” as he must convince Morticia to host their new, Midwestern in-laws for dinner. Secrets are disclosed, relationships are tested and the Addams family is faced with one important question: What is normal?
These are just a few of the shows and entertainment that are on schedule for this year! There are also concerts, ballets and guest speakers. The arts at FSU are nothing short of incredible, so don’t miss out! More information about tickets and this season’s schedule can be found here.
*All images are courtesy of the FSU School of Theatre.