Six new shows dive deep into the definition of identity—the true self or image one might create.

Individuals, a soccer team, a small town and a whole class system grapple with expressing or disguising their identities.

“Identity is both the thing that makes each individual unique and the thing that binds people together,” said Mark Templeton, managing director.

Examine the concept of identity with the department of theatre and dance. The 2018-19 season begins Sept. 20 in Craig Hall.

Performances

“The Wolves”

“The Wolves” provides a glimpse into the drama among a girls’ high school soccer team. Over the course of the season, intertwined conversations on the field reveal players’ true identities. Pack mentality and adolescent energy fuel the emotions in this show.

Performances will be in the Craig Hall Balcony Theatre on these dates:

• Sept. 20-21, 24-28 and Oct 1-3 at 7:30 p.m.
• Sept. 23 and 30 at 2:30 p.m.

“Amélie”

After surviving a lonely childhood, Amélie begins a series of covert acts of kindness to bring joy to those around her. “Amélie” displays the power of human connection.

Performances will be in the Craig Hall Coger Theatre on these dates:

• Oct. 25-27 and 29 at 7:30 p.m.
• Oct. 28 at 2:30 p.m.

“She Stoops to Conquer”

Young suitor Charles finds women in his own class very intimidating, so Kate decides to masquerade as a maid to get to know the real him. Mistaken identities ensure chaos and laughter in “She Stoops to Conquer.”

Performances will be in the Craig Hall Coger Theatre on these dates:

• Nov. 29-Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 2 at 2:30 p.m.

“bare”

In “bare,” a young boy feels compelled to reveal his true sexual identity while attending a Catholic boarding school. He must choose between hiding and possibly losing everything.

Performances will be in the Craig Hall Balcony Theatre on these dates:

• February 21-22, February 25-March 1 and March 4-6 at 7:30 p.m.
• February 24 and March 3 at 2:30 p.m.

“Sightlines: Spring Dance Concert”

“Sightlines” explores the broader connections between spectators, performers and creators of dance compositions. These original pieces represent unique perspectives and invite individual interpretations.

Performances will be in the Craig Hall Coger Theatre on these dates:

• March 28-30 at 7:30 p.m.
• March 31 at 2:30 p.m.

“The Rimers of Eldritch”

Set in the mining community of Eldritch, Missouri, moral corruption lurks as the population and economy dwindle. “The Rimers of Eldritch” is a haunting and poetic exploration of American identity.

Performances will be in the Craig Hall Coger Theatre on these dates:

• May 2-4 at 7:30 p.m.
• May 5 at 2:30 p.m.

Ticket Information

Tickets can be purchased at any Missouri State Tix box office by calling 417-836-7678 or visiting MissouriStateTix.com.

For more information, contact Templeton at 417-836-4644, or visit the theatre and dance website.