Unique in venue – actual performances are outside under a tent (originally to escape the non-air-conditioned heat of 1960s Carrington Hall) – Tent Theatre at Missouri State is an annual theatrical treat for the campus and Springfield community, and an opportunity for Missouri State alumni and friends to support some incredibly talented student performers as they work side-by-side with seasoned theatre professionals.

As Tent Theatre enters its 51st season, called “Heart and Soul”, the performances are as exciting as ever, with productions of 110 In the Shade, Steel Magnolias, and Damn Yankees.  As is the case every season, the generosity of donors and underwriters to the program continue to make Tent what it is today.

Annually thousands of members of the community contribute to the success of Tent Theatre through ticket purchases, underwriting and sponsorship of specific shows and productions, and private donations.   Those private gifts include monetary contributions to several dozen Tent Theatre Scholarships that are offered to student participants annually.  These scholarships, which are awarded to students both on stage and backstage, help support the educational expenses students incur as they participate in Tent, studying and preparing for professional careers in the arts in a real world setting.  For the 2013 Season alone approximately 20 Tent Theatre Scholarships valued at $20,000 were awarded from the Missouri State University Foundation.

“I am so grateful to have the opportunity to perform this year with Tent Theatre,” said Cecilia Dorhauer, recipient of the Robert Gilmore Tent Theatre Founders Scholarship who plays Annelle in Steel Magnolias.  She noted that as an acting major at Missouri State the opportunity made possible by the scholarship will give her a great learning experience during her senior year that will prepare her to pursue a career in film.

Nick Driscoll, who is part of the ensemble for 110 in the Shade and Damn Yankees, is the oldest of seven-children from a single-income household.  He was selected to receive the David Kerrigan Fly Tent Theatre Scholarship and noted that he found it particularly encouraging to receive the scholarship during these times of economic uncertainty.  Knowing that he had the opportunity to receive exceptional training and experiences at Missouri State because someone was willing to make an investment in his musical theatre goals made the scholarship all the more meaningful.

The continued growth and success of MSU students and programs like Tent Theatre are made possible by the continued involvement and interest of MSU donors, alumni and the Springfield community. This support not only provides financial assistance for students, but also makes it possible to enhance learning opportunities through improved facilities, updated equipment, and the opportunity to work with professionals.

There are still two productions left during this “Heart and Soul” Season of Tent Theatre. Steel Magnolias, a comedy drama about Southern Belles using humor and wit to deal with overwhelming grief, starts its run June 27-29 and July 1-6. Closing out the season, is a musical about a devoted baseball fan making a deal with the devil to allow his team to win the pennant. Damn Yankees will run July 11-13 and 15-21.  To purchase tickets for these shows visit the Tent Theatre website or call the Box Office at 417-836-7678.

If you or your business are interested in being a Tent Theatre sponsor you can call 417-836-4644.  If you are interested in making a donation to a Tent Theatre fund visit the Theatre and Dance Department online contribution page.

To learn more about the history of Tent Theatre check out Tent Theatre: An Enduring Legacy from OzarksWatch Video Magazine online.