School of Theatre Season Resumes with Restoration Comedy "The Rover"

Aphra Behn's "The Rover," a restoration comedy written in 1677 by one of the first female playwrights will open the School of Theatre fall season next month at Illinois State University's Center for the Performing Arts Theatre.   

As always, the theatre calendar will close with a University Dance Theatre concert April 30 and May 1 and 2.

Tickets to all theatre productions can be purchased at the CPA box office from noon to  5 p.m. weekdays, by calling (309) 438-2535 or on line at ticketmaster.com   The box office will open five days a week beginning Jan. 12.

 "The Rover" will be presented 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 and 27, both at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on  Feb. 28, and at 2 p.m. on March 1.  The play follows amorous youths on their quest for love and passion during Carnival.   It will be directed by Chris Peak of the School of Theatre.

"Evita," the award-winning musical based on the life of political icon and pop culture celebrity Eva Peron, will be presented April 3, 4 and 7 to 11 at 7:30 p.m., plus a 2 p.m. April 5 matinee.   With music by Webber and lyrics by Rice, "Evita" tells the story of a woman who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most beloved and controversial women in her country's history.  It will be directed by Theatre's Lori Adams.

"Breath, Boom" by Kia Corthron, in collaboration with Crossroads Theatre, will be presented Feb. 20, 21 and 24 to 28 at 7:30 p.m. plus a 2 p.m. matinee on Feb. 22.  It will be directed by Theatre Professor Sandi Zielinski.  "Our Country's Good" by Timberlake Wertenbaker will be presented at 7:30 p.m. April 3, 4, 5 and 7 to 11, plus a 2 p.m. matinee on April 5.  It will be directed by Mark Baer, a master of fine arts student in directing.

The Spring Dance Concert, at 7:30 p.m. April 30 and May 1 and 2, and 7:30 p.m.
on May 2, will feature student dancers. 

In April, the Free Will Series will present "Julius Caesar" at 7:30 p.m. April 22 to 25 and at 2 p.m. on April 26.