Marquette Theatre’s 2018–19 season will be the 44th in the Evan P. and Marion Helfaer Theatre. Six selected plays around the theme “Reflections” will explore this phenomenon and draw connections and comparisons.
Shows include: “White Privilege,” “Little Women,” “Clybourne Park,” “Dooby Dooby Moo,” “Image of an Unknown Young Woman” and “The Rivals.”
“White Privilege”
Aug. 31-Sept. 2, 2018
Hearing about racial issues on the news is one thing, but what happens when those very problems are face to face with us? Marquette Theatre student Malaina Moore invites audiences of any and every race to join the nationwide conversation and consider how interactions with students, teachers, parents, friends, and even strangers are influenced by race and how the color of one’s skin can lead to a very different experience of the world.
“Little Women The Musical”
Sept. 27-30, Oct. 3-5 and Oct. 7, 2018
This musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s enduring novel is about a stalwart heroine, determined to rise. Jo March struggles to find her way as a successful independent writer, as her melodramatic stories are not selling. Seeking a new subject, she reflects on her life and family, and growing up during the Civil War. This American classic about the March sisters is brought to life with a dazzling Broadway score.
“Clybourne Park”
Nov. 9-11 and Nov. 14-18, 2018
This wonderfully acidic serio-comedy about race and real estate focuses on the story of one house separated by fifty years. In 1959, the prospect of a black family moving into the neighborhood creates uneasiness. Fifty years later, the fear of gentrification in the now predominantly black neighborhood gives cause for new anxiety and reflection. This Pulitzer Award-winning play mirrors Lorraine Hansberry’s illustrious work, A Raisin in the Sun, bookending its story artfully. [Contains mature language.]
“Dooby Dooby Moo”
School Matinees: Jan. 7-11 and Jan. 16-18, 2019
Public Performances: Jan. 12-13 and Jan. 19-20, 2019
Duck, Pig, Cow, along with their new friend Ewe, are trying to win a local talent show. If they work together and avoid Farmer Brown’s suspicions, they might even win a trampoline! Drawn from Doreen Cronin’s delightful Click Clack Moo series, this fun musical about supporting each other offers a wonderful lesson for all ages.
“Image of an Unknown Young Woman”
Feb. 15-17 and Feb. 20-24, 2019
What happens when an image goes viral? In this compelling play, a video of a young woman being shot sparks an uprising. When uploaded to the internet, this image takes on a life and momentum of its own, profoundly affecting the array of characters in their separate lives. This play boldly examines the intersections of society, revolution and social media. It provides a gripping reflection on what grabs our attention and on our unacknowledged capacity for rage and violence. [For mature audiences.]
“The Rivals”
April 5-7 and April 10-14, 2019
When well-to-do Captain Jack Absolute pretends to be a lowly private soldier to win the heart of Lydia Languish, little does he know that soon he will become his own rival to her heart. Hilarious confusion swirls around many amorous escapades that reflect as much upon affectation as affection. This celebrated comedy-of-manners also features the wonderful, word-mangling Mrs. Malaprop.
For more information, call the Theatre Box Office at (414) 288-7504 or visit the Theatre Box Office website.