Covering the arts, culture and entertainment in East Central Indiana
THEATER & DANCE
Muncie Civic creates between bridge community with 'Into the Woods'
Jillian MacNulty
Oct. 24, 2015
It’s been nearly 85 years since Muncie Civic Theater began creating theater productions – an impressive accomplishment for a local community group. But, members say they are even more grateful for the bridge the productions have created among people in Muncie.
Ball State University students and professors, and community members young and old take to the stage each year to perform, and Civic's upcoming production of "Into the Woods" is no different.
Ball State theater professor Beth Turcotte has been a member of the Muncie Civic community since she began teaching 34 years ago. Playing the role of Jack's Mother in this whimsical stage production filled with beloved fairytale characters and complicated plot lines, Turcotte has found it rewarding to work with Ball State students, some of which she has in class.
Turcotte calls the partnership between Ball State and the Muncie Civic "wonderful," saying that many opportunities for both students and community members arise from Civic's shows.
“I love the arts,” Turcotte said. “I love what it does to a community and for a community.”
"Into the Woods" runs through Nov. 1. Tickets can be purchased online. For more information on Muncie Civic Theatre and its upcoming productions, visit its website.
I
"Miracle' Comes to Muncie Civic'
By Andrea Yeater
Dec. 12, 2105
It’s not too late to enjoy the heart-warming Christmas classic, “Miracle on 34th Street,” at Muncie Civic Theatre.
The theatrical “Miracle on 34th Street,” based on the 1947 film of the same name, was the third musical from Meredith Willson, who also brought “The Music Man” to fame on Broadway.
“Miracle on 34th Street” tells the story of a department store Santa in New York who helps even the most cynical believe that Santa truly exists.
Director Laura Williams said the biggest challenge was adding new elements while showcasing the musical’s history.
“I talked to my production team and said, ‘What if we took it one step further, what if we actually created the set and all the costumes, not just the style but the color as if it was in a black and white film?’” Williamson said.
The approach means costumes and sets begin in gray-scale and sepia tones, and then transform into color as the show progresses. The appearance of color is meant to represent the belief that emerges in each character, Williamson said.
The production contains popular songs such as “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas,” which was popularized by singers such as Perry Como.
Even the lesser-known songs are still a treat for both the actors and audience. Emily McDaniel, Ball State junior and actor in the show, says that some songs are just plain funny.
“My favorite song is the Macy’s workers sing this song called ‘Plastic Alligators,’” she said. “It’s just this really goofy song, and it’s ridiculous, which is why I love it.”
While “Miracle on 34th Street” will warm the hearts of the audience, Williams said the show is about more than just believing in Santa Claus. The Muncie audience will be able to relate to the theme of believing that faith in a community can make a difference.
“What I believe, is a very slow and not overnight, not all at once, belief in Muncie downtown’s identity,” she said.
Performances continue Dec.11-13, and 17-19. Tickets are $16 for adults, and $11 for students and children.