With the beginning of the school year arriving earlier this month, Concordia’s Theatre Department diligently prepares for its newest season of excellent productions. Amongst student-move-in and returning from summer break, the Theatre Department wasted no time in its efforts for the year, as the first show, “The Trojan Women” by Euripedes, is set to open on Sep. 6 and continue performances until Sep. 15. Beyond performances of “The Trojan Women,” there is excitement throughout the department for this year's season. 

During the department’s annual kick off meeting on Aug. 22, students got to learn more about the upcoming musical “She Loves Me,” directed by Susanna Vaughn. Opening in November, “She Loves Me” provides a heartwarming romantic comedy of unexpected pen pals to lovers. “‘She Loves Me’ is going to have such a beautiful set and costumes. With the talent and people that we have working on that show, the aesthetics are going to be unmatched,” said sophomore Nicole Kramer. Kramer is a Theatre and English major from Phoenix, Arizona and is currently playing Athena and a Chorus Member in “The Trojan Women.” 

Looking ahead to spring 2025, the Theatre Department is set to produce a comedy entitled “Over the River and Through the Woods” at the end of January, and a modern drama “Wings” opening in March. “Over the River and Through the Woods” is a charming comedy about family dynamics, growing up and how we embrace change. “I’m looking forward to being involved in something that is comedic and light-hearted while still having a central message, like ‘Over the River,’” said Kramer. On the contrary, “Wings” takes an introspective look into the head of a former stunt pilot who experiences a life-altering stroke.

From Italian family dinners in “Over the River and Through the Woods” to tackling the tragedy of medical strokes in “Wings,” the Theatre Department plans to offer another season of diverse storytelling across multiple genres. “Our department is dedicated towards providing sixteen genres of shows throughout the four years, just so you become exposed to as many kinds of shows as possible. For audiences, it is really good to see the variety of shows that we have because it emphasizes how creative and capable our department is,” said senior Isabella Mangahis. Mangahis is a Theatre major with a double emphasis in Acting and Directing as well as Design and Technical Production. 

For new students, the adjustment to collegiate theater can be rather overwhelming or daunting, with musical auditions right around the corner. However, returning students and faculty of the Theatre Department are dedicated to creating a positive atmosphere for all students to take part. “I think that it’s important to really have confidence in yourself and what you can bring to the table while also doing your best to maintain an attitude of humility in knowing that there is so much to learn,” Kramer said, adding, “That was the central theme of my freshman year.”

While the actors, technicians and designers prepare for performances, the essential component of theater is the audience members. This year, the Theatre Department invites all students, staff and faculty to see all of the performances this season and to get students involved in various ways. “Whether you are a Theatre major or not a Theatre major, if you are ever interested in learning about our department, feel free to take classes, audition or try tech,” said Mangahis. 

Concordia students can reserve one free ticket for any theater performance by using the code CUISTU at checkout. For more information on the Theatre Department season, or to purchase tickets for an upcoming performance, visit simple.tix.com. 

Tags: Theatre

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About Rebekah Michel

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