Olivia Ridpath and Haiden Lyle in the University Players 2019 production of “Beauty and the Beast.” The drama company has announced its 2020-21 line-up of shows.
The University Players’ 2020-21 season offers a blend of classic and contemporary shows the company expects will surprise and delight audiences.
“We’re inviting audiences to join us for a season that reimagines classic tales, allowing the opportunity for all ages to engage with theatre,” says Lionel Walsh, acting director of the School of Dramatic Art. “This season will build on last season’s effort to improve accessibility and bring in members of the community to the theatre.”
The season kicks off with a contemporary twist on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set in an early-1900’s carnival with fairies and lovers alike taking on the roles of carnival performers and clowns in a wild and magical adventure that feels like it was all a dream.
In October, the season features Paradise Lost by Erin Shields, the dramatic retelling of John Milton’s poems that was a featured work in the Stratford Festival’s 2018 season.
In December, families are invited to enjoy a performance of Charlotte’s Web by Joseph Robinette.
In January, audiences will enjoy the classic story of Little Women in an adaptation by Marian de Forest.
A heartrending musical prequel to Peter Pan, Peter and the Starcatcher by Rick Elice, follows in February and March as a Hatch Studio Theatre staging.
Closing out the season is the enormous spectacle Amadeus by Peter Shaffer.
The University Players will open its 62nd season Sept. 25; performances run through April 11. Season subscriptions are available starting at $95, or patrons may purchase a package of three plays starting at $45. For tickets, contact the University Players box office at 519-253-3000, ext. 2808, or online at www.universityplayers.com.