Theater-by-the-Grove and Dance Theater are produced by the Department of Theater and Dance and present several productions each year. This includes at least three plays, two dance performances, and co-production with Music Theater of a major musical.
Ovations!, Indiana's premier touring performing arts series, also offers additional theater, dance, and music events.
Theater-by-the-Grove, Dance Theater, and Music Theater are funded, in part, by the IUP Student Cooperative Association.
View the Events Calendar for Lively Arts.
The Optimist
October 3–5 and 9–12 at 8:00 p.m.; October 6 at 2:00 p.m; Waller Hall Mainstage, IUP Performing Arts Center
Over the course of one tumultuous weekend, Noel returns to his hometown to confront the sudden death of his best friend, the wedding of his philandering father, and the reemergence of his one true love, Nicole. This play contains language and situations to which some audience members may object.
The Brothers Karamazov
October 17–19 at 8:00 p.m. and October 20 at 2:00 p.m.; Waller Hall Studio, IUP Performing Arts Center
Using a small cast of 10 players, The Brothers Karamazov combines language, movement, and acapella chants and prayers from Orthodox and Catholic sources to weave a mystic examination of faith and doubt.
Dance Theater Fall Showcase
October 25–26 at 7:00 p.m. and October 27 at 2:00 p.m.; Zink Hall Dance Theater
The IUP Dance Theater will perform a variety of new works in this Showcase, which includes talent from the IUP Music Department.
A Christmas Carol
December 3–7 at 8:00 p.m.; December 8 at 2:00 p.m.; Waller Hall Mainstage, IUP Performing Arts Center
Charles Dickens' classic tale of redemption, told with magical wonder by the many characters of Dickens' London just in time for the holidays. Puppetry and spectacle abound in this fast-paced rendition that surprises at every turn.
The Monster in the Garden
February 20–22, 26–28, and March 1 at 8:00 p.m.; February 23 at 2:00 p.m.; Waller Hall Mainstage, IUP Performing Arts Center
The translation and adaptation of this rediscovered work will receive its world premiere on the Waller stage. A romantic comedy by 17th-century playwright Pedro Calderón de la Barca is given new life by award-winning playwright Caridad Svich. This gender-bending, provocative comedy asks all of us to believe in a little magic. Please note: Tickets stating “A Play in Development” remain valid for these performances.
The Girl in White
April 4–5 at 7:00 p.m. and April 6 at 2:00 p.m.; Zink Hall Dance Theater
The Girl in White is a dance production loosely based on Mexican folklore. The production will be codirected by Holly Boda-Sutton and Kevin Eisensmith in collaboration with the composer Robert J. Bradshaw.
The Pajama Game
April 10–12 at 8:00 p.m., April 13 at 2:00 p.m.; Fisher Auditorium, IUP Performing Arts Center
A true “song and dance” musical, The Pajama Game won three Tony Awards in 1955 for Best Musical, Best Featured Actress, and Best Choreography. Its unlikely setting in a pajama factory puts a twist on the complications of workplace romance.
