Our students shine on stage and behind the scenes. Come see the many ways that the
university's theatre and dance performances enhance the arts scene in Columbia, South
Carolina and the Midlands.
2022-2023 Theatre Season
A Midsummer Night's Dream
October 2 & 8-9, 2022
Written by William Shakespeare Adapted and Originally Directed for the Stage by Victor Malana Maog Directed by Devin Haqq
Shakespeare Festival Stage
Experience the enchantment of The Bard in the open air setting of our brand new outdoor
venue, the Shakespeare Festival Stage! This new touring stage made its national debut
this summer at the National Building Museum in Washington, DC, where it served as
the set for the Folger Theatre’s critically-lauded production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Now, it’s coming home to campus, where our talented student actors will take on
the same timeless tale of magic, mix-ups and mayhem under the direction of guest artist
Devin Haqq.
"Small Mouth Sounds" contains adult situations and content that is not suitable for
children.
This production utilizes theatrical haze and strobe effects.
A 2016 Critics’ Pick (New York Times, Time Out), Bess Wohl’s hit off-Broadway play is a unique theatrical experience that will leave
you “moved, refreshed and even enlightened” (New York Times). Set at a meditation retreat in a secluded forest, six strangers take a week-long
respite from the noise of modern day society with an added vow of complete silence.
Guided by an unseen guru, we embark with them on an alternately hilarious and heartbreaking
journey that asks, “How do we address life’s biggest questions when words fail us?”
It will still be winter outside, but in the Lab Theatre we’ll be all about the shorts -- short plays, that is! Enjoy a fast-paced evening of laughter, heartbreak and everything
in between as we present a collection of 10-minute plays, each directed by a different
member of our theatre performance faculty. “A ten-minute play is a streak of theatrical
lightning. It doesn’t last long, but its power can stand your hair on end.” (Take Ten, Vintage Books)
The Light
March 16-19, 2023
Written by Loy Webb Directed by Ibi Owolabi
Lab Theatre
Recipient of Chicago’s Jefferson Award for Best Play in 2018, The Light is a visceral, real-time roller coaster ride that sees a loving relationship rocked
by secrets from the past. When we are introduced to Genesis and Rashad, it’s during
the romantic high of a heartfelt marriage proposal. The happy plans are suddenly derailed,
however, by an accusation of sexual assault that threatens to rip apart their bond
of love and trust. “...the #MeToo play you didn’t know you wanted, but that you need
to see.” — Nylon
Contains mature content that is not appropriate for children.
Spring Awakening
April 7-14, 2023
Book and Lyrics by Steven Sater Music by Duncan Sheik Based on the play by Frank Wedekind Directed by Travis Greisler
Drayton Hall Theatre
Winner of eight Tony® Awards, Spring Awakening is an exhilarating coming-of-age story set to a raucous rock score. Based on the
provocative 1906 play by Frank Wedekind, this groundbreaking musical provides an unvarnished
look at a group of teenagers grappling with issues of sexuality, identity, and society
as they navigate the turbulent transition from innocence to adulthood. “...represents
the sort of imaginative boost that the American musical desperately needs.” (Washington Post)
Contains mature content that is not appropriate for children.
Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.
