A political satire play, a drive-in movie on the Parade Ground and a speech by a seasoned journalist are just some of the entertainment options students have on campus this semester.
Adam Miller, department of theatre marketing and public relations director, said many events are coming up both at the Reilly Theatre and the Music and Dramatic Arts Building, including the plays “Louisiana Purchase,” “Our Country’s Good,” and “Goblin Market,” as well as a dance concert featuring choreography by University students and faculty.
“Louisiana Purchase” is part of the ongoing celebration of the state’s bicentennial anniversary. Set in the late 1930s and early 1940s, the play takes a satirical look at Louisiana politics of that era.
“It’s going to be huge,” Miller said. “We’ve got lavish sets, lavish costumes and an extremely talented cast.”
The play will be performed at the Reilly Theatre, located on Tower Drive, March 27-April 13.
“Our Country’s Good,” running from May 1 through May 10 at the Reilly Theatre, provides social commentary and a look at “how do you qualify a criminal,” Miller said. According to the 2002-2003 theatre season guide, “this inspirational play demonstrates the healing power of theatre with great elegance and passion.”
The mini-musical “Goblin Market” takes a look at two sisters in Victorian England confronting temptations in their adolescence. As part of the department of theatre’s studio season, the play runs April 3-April 12 in Room 150 of the Music and Dramatic Arts Building. The play is “for students, by students,” Miller said.
Coming up May 9 and 10 at the Shaver Theatre is the annual dance concert featuring members of the University community. In addition to dance students, the concert has featured groups such as the LSU Golden Girls and members of Baton Rouge area ballet clubs.
For students who seek something different, the Union offers several evening activities, including movie screenings, comedy shows and guest speakers.
“Austin Powers in Goldmember” is the featured “drive-in” movie April 3 on the Parade Ground, giving students an opportunity to watch the movie outdoors on a large screen.
Stand-up performer Danny Hoch will be performing his controversial “Jails, Hospitals, and Hip-Hop” show, speaking from his experiences teaching inner-city youth, April 5 in the Union. The Tony Award-nominated “Swing!” will be showcased as part of the Great Performances Theater Series on April 25.
Lena Williams, senior writer for The New York Times, will be in the Union April 7 discussing issues dealing with race and racial division.
“We really try to do everything and give something for everybody,” said Jason Meier, Union program coordinator. “We really like to have a lot of diverse events.”