School of Theatre and Dance
Kent State Kicks Off 55th Commemoration of May 4 With Play on Student Activism and Book Bans
This year, Kent State University will hold the 55th commemoration honoring the memory of May 4, 1970, a tragic day when the Ohio National Guard fired on Kent State students during an anti-war protest on campus, killing four students, wounding nine others and sparking a turning point in American history. Kicking off the program for the annual May 4 Commemoration is a play that focuses on student activism and book bans.
‘Trial by Fire’ Play Is First in 2025 May 4 Event Schedule
“Trial by Fire” is coming to Kent State in February. The play, written by Kent State alumnus and staff member Eric Mansfield, and inspired by a true story, is about banned books and a Kent State graduate who presented them to her high school class and how her students rose to activism to defend her. The performances are part of this year’s 55th May 4 Commemoration schedule, presented by the May 4 Education Committee.
IN A FLASH: A Rich and Spectacular Performance Season
The Main Stage Season presented by Kent State University's School of Theatre and Dance is in the middle of a performance-packed season that includes "The Crucible," "Pride and Prejudice: The Musical," faculty dance concerts and "The Wiz."
IN A FLASH: Expressions of Belonging
"Belonging" was the theme of the Fall Faculty Concert presented by Kent State University's School of Theatre and Dance in the E. Turner Stump Theatre.
Student Spotlight: Marianna Young
Meet Marianna Young!
“I chose Kent State because I felt immediately at home here,” said Marianna. “As soon as I toured the school I knew this was the place for me and I truly wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. I also really fell in love with the musical theatre program. All of the faculty and staff made me feel so welcome!”
Alumna Jocelyn Trimmer Returns in ‘Mean Girls’ at Playhouse Square
Jocelyn Trimmer, a 2024 Kent State University graduate, wasted no time in getting a job after graduation. In fact, just weeks before May Commencement, she landed a spot in the ensemble cast for the North American tour of the popular musical “Mean Girls.”
IN A FLASH: On With the Show!
It's "showtime" in the Kent State University School of Theater and Dance as the halls and studios are alive with activity as students get into the routine of Fall Semester.
IN A FLASH: ‘Annie’ at Porthouse Theatre
The ever-popular, award-winning musical “Annie” is now playing at Kent State University’s Porthouse Theatre at Blossom Music Center from July 19-Aug. 4.
IN A FLASH: It's Nunsense!
The whimsical musical "Nunsense" takes the stage at Kent State's Porthouse Theater from July 5 - 13.
IN A FLASH: ‘Everybody’s’ Journeys
Kent State’s School of Theatre and Dance closed its spring performance season with its production of “Everybody.”