With an emphasis on diversity, inclusivity and exceptional entertainment, West Virginia Public Theatre will offer three plays and two staged readings for its 2023 season.
The selections include drama, suspense and magic in shows that will appeal to audiences of all ages.
“We are beyond thrilled to bring three incredible productions and two staged readings to our audiences,” said Jerry McGonigle, WVPT artistic director. “Our 2023 lineup will showcase our theater’s emphasis on quality entertainment and introduce our audiences to incredibly talented actors, designers and producers who are working hard to bring each of these shows to life.”
This year’s schedule includes performances in June, July, August and December.
The Mountaintop by Katori Hall is set for June 8 -11 at the Gladys G. Davis Theatre, Canady Creative Arts Center, Morgantown. This drama is a fictional retelling of the last night of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.’s life.
“The play is inspiring and we believe will leave our audiences in awe of the power of the human spirit,” said McGonigle.
Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure is set for June 23-July 1 at the Gladys G. Davis Theatre. It is adapted by Steven Dietz and based on the original 1899 play by William Gillette and Arthur Conan Doyle. This classic whodunit takes the audience on a thrilling adventure through Victorian London and has all the intrigue and suspense that fans of the iconic detective expect.
I Want to Know What Love Is and Kill the Bird are this summer’s staged readings, which WVPT and Broadway Licensing partner to premier. These will be performed Aug. 19 at the Gladys G. Davis Theatre.
“We are proud to be an exclusive partner with Broadway Licensing and appreciate the opportunity to give WVU theater students a platform to introduce their work,” said McGonigle.
Narnia: The Musical, based on C.S. Lewis’ beloved children’s book, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, will close out the season Dec. 16-22 at the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre. With book by Jules Tasca, music by Thomas Tierney and lyrics by Ted Drachman, this musical shares the timeless story of four siblings who journey to a magical land filled with talking animals and mythical creatures.
“For more than 30 years, West Virginia Public Theatre has provided audiences in Morgantown and surrounding communities with classical and contemporary productions that showcase the talents of local and national actors, directors and designers,” said McGonigle. “This 2023 season will continue our commitment to that mission.”
Tickets for The Mountaintop and Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure are on sale now. I Want to Know What Love Is, Kill the Bird, and Narnia: The Musical tickets will be available soon. Tickets are $15-$30, with adult, senior, child and group rates available.
Tickets to the staged reading are free. To purchase tickets, visit the WVU CCAC box office at https://wvuccauniversitytickets.com or call 304-293-TKTS.
