Kent, OH – The School of Theatre and Dance at Kent State University continues it 2014-2015 season with “Hot Mikado,” a musical based on the classic Gilbert and Sullivan opera “The Mikado.” The production opens Fri. Oct. 24 and runs through Sun., Nov. 2 in E. Turner Stump Theatre, located in the Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Drive, Kent, OH 44242.
For tickets call 330-672-ARTS (2787), purchase online at www.kent.edu/theatredance or in person at the Performing Arts Box Office located in the Roe Green Center lobby of the Center for the Performing Arts at 1325 Theatre Drive, Mon. – Fri., Noon to 5 pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for Kent State University alumni, faculty and staff, $14 for seniors (60+) and non-Kent State students age 18 and under are $10. Tickets for full-time, Kent campus undergraduates are free of charge. Groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets for $12 per person. The box office accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, checks, and cash.
With lyrics adapted by David H. Bell and music adapted and arranged by Rob Bowman, “Hot Mikado” is a comedic and thrilling combination of Japanese design and culture and the jazz and blues sounds of 1940s America. When the heir to the Japanese throne runs away and joins a traveling orchestra, he falls in love with a girl on his travels. But there's a problem – they are both engaged to other people. As the heir pursues his love, avoids his father and fiancé, and tries to maintain the secret of his true identity, musical comedy ensues.
“Hot Mikado” is directed and choreographed by assistant professor Amy Fritsche, whose direction of the smash hit “Legally Blonde” thrilled audiences last season. Fritsche describes “Hot Mikado” as a must-see production that “is a hilarious, hot and jazzy update of The Mikado. The show will be a swinging rip roaring good time for everyone involved.”
The production and design team includes music direction by assistant professor Jennifer Korecki, assistant direction by Daniel Ebert, assistant choreography by Nora Culley, scenic design by associate professor Raynette Smith, technical direction by Chase Drought, lighting design by Cyndi Hoffman, costume design by April Rock, and sound design by Nathan Rosmarin. Cullen Motak serves as production stage manager.
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Media Contact:
Joni Koneval, jkoneval@kent.edu, 330-672-0116