Opera
Opera has a long tradition at Fort Hays State University. Under the direction of Dr. Joseph Perniciaro, The FHSU Opera Theatre presents one full main stage opera production each year. These productions are fully staged, costumed, accompanied by orchestra, and on special occasions involve collaborations with members of the Hays community.
Past productions have included Hansel and Gretel, The Wandering Scholar, Bastien and Bastienne, L'Orfeo, Trouble in Tahiti, The Little Match Girl (by 2008-09 FHSU Composer-in-Residence Richard Faith), A Hand of Bridge, Tickets, Please!,The Medium, The Impresario, Dido and Aeneas, L'enfant et les Sortileges (The Bewitched Child), The Pirates of Penzance , and The Magic Flute.
Performance opportunities are not limited to our main stage productions. The FHSU Opera Workshop trains students in all aspects of operatic performance techniques, including acting and movement. On varying years the Opera Workshop presents scenes from operas, in public performances, which provide additional performance opportunities and role experience.
FHSU students develop the skills to be successful stage performers, and to take those skills into their careers whether they are in performance or education. FHSU Opera is not only a performance resource for the University, but also the city of Hays and western Kansas. The opera seeks to foster interest in opera by cultivating new audiences, and engaging our current audiences with quality performances.
For more information contact Dr. Joseph Perniciaro, director of Opera Activities, at 785-628-5329 or jcperniciaro@fhsu.edu.
Musical Theatre
One fully staged musical is produced every fall, with auditions open to majors and non-majors. Performances are accompanied by a full orchestra or musical combo or depending on the piece. Musical direction is provided by Dr. Terry Crull and stage direction is guided by Ms. Tomme Williams. Pam McGowne serves as rehearsal accompanist, and Mr. Bruce Bardwell and crew design and construction scenery and properties.
This year's production of the Gershwin Brothers' classic Crazy for You will be held Wednesday-Friday, Oct. 2-4 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 5 at 2:30 p.m. in Felten-Start Theater, Malloy Hall.
For more information contact Dr. Terry Crull, musical director, at 785-628-4258 or tacrull@fhsu.edu, or Ms. Tomme Williams, instructor of Theatre, at 785-628-4449 or tlwilliams@fhsu.edu.
Fringe Theatre
The Department of Music and Theatre is also proud to present two to three theatre performances throughout the year, including a student director's showcase each spring. Auditions are also open to majors and non-majors. Ms. Tomme Williams serves as director.
This year's productions include The Miss Firecracker Contest on Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 14-16 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2:30 p.m. The season continues with performances of the play Harvey on Thursday-Saturday, March 6-8, 2014, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 9 at 2:30 p.m. The 2014 Director's Showcase will be held Friday, May 9, 2014, at 7:30 p.m. All performances are held in Felten-Start Theater.
For more information contact Ms. Tomme Williams, instructor of Theatre, at 785-628-4449 or tlwilliams@fhsu.edu.
Ticket Information
Reserve tickets online at https://webapps.fhsu.edu/theatreonlinereservations/ or call the FHSU Student Service Center at 785-628-5306.