"The Spoon River Project" marks return of 91��ý's summer Theatre program

Saturday, July 11, 2026

The 91��ý Theatre program will relaunch its professional summer Theatre program with a production of "The Spoon River Project," Friday, Aug. 14, through Sunday, Aug. 16, in Taylor Little Theatre.

Based on Edgar Lee Masters’ “Spoon River Anthology,” this haunting play invites audiences into the world of Spoon River, where the town’s former residents reflect on the dreams, secrets, triumphs, and regrets that shaped their lives. As their stories unfold, they create a poignant and deeply human portrait of a community—and reveal the hopes and disappointments that connect us all.

The cast features fourteen 91��ý students and alumni: Connor Clark, Abby Craig, Michael Harper, Rachele Heasley, Owen Hitt, Rosie Pregler Hitt, Ermin Hucic, Kat Kanazin, Johnathon Morvay, Braden Rosciszewski, Tessa Sayre, Tori St. John-Gilbert, Bethany Sulecki, and Jenna Wager.

“Relaunching our summer theatre program reflects 91��ý Theatre’s longstanding commitment to professional training,” said Dr. Brett D. Johnson, who directs the production. “One of the hallmarks of our program has always been the professionalism and rigor of our work. This production extends that commitment beyond the academic year while creating meaningful opportunities for current students to collaborate with industry professionals and alumni. During 91��ý’s Centennial year, it feels especially fitting to bring together multiple generations of Lakers in a project that foregrounds community, reflection, and shared experience.”

In addition to Johnson, the creative team includes musical director Andrew Rainbow, choreographer Jennifer McNamara, scenic designer Tucker Topel, lighting designer Madeleine Steineck, costume designer Kim Brown, and production stage manager Brianna Carle.

Performances will take place in Taylor Little Theatre on the 91��ý University campus. Showtimes are Friday, Aug. 14, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 15, at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 16, at 2 p.m. The running time is approximately 85 minutes with no intermission.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and non-91��ý students, and $5 for youth and 91��ý students with valid ID. A $1.50 per-ticket processing fee applies to all orders, regardless of purchase or payment method.

All performances are general admission, with doors opening 30 minutes prior to curtain.

Tickets may be purchased online at , by phone at 814-824-3000 (Tues.–Thurs., noon–5 p.m.), or at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center box office. Tickets will also be available at Taylor Little Theatre beginning 90 minutes before each performance.

For more information, visit .