Current Season
The University of West Florida’s Department of Theatre has always encouraged students to prepare, practice and perform theatre not only as an aspect of their educational experience but as an element of our community’s experience in the arts. This year, our 2024-2025 Season explores what we truly mean when we speak about our community and the various intersections of our identities that seem to become clearer as we search for the communities we feel comfortable and accepted in.
You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Based on The Comic Strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz, Book, Music and Lyrics by Clark Gesner, Additional Dialogue by Michael Mayer, Additional Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
Sept. 27-29 & Oct. 4-6, 2024
Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2025, the classic Peanuts gang comes to life in this beloved musical adaptation of Charles M. Schulz’s beloved mid-century comic strip. Originally debuting off-Broadway in 1967, this vibrant production revolves around the daily antics of Charlie Brown and friends Schroeder, Lucy, Sally, Linus and Snoopy who push and pull each other through various musical numbers and escapades. Ultimately, through an environment of friendship, Charlie and generations of audiences have had the opportunity to come together as a community and explore what being a ‘good man’ really means… Treating others with respect and empathy.
Akeelah and the Bee
by Adapted for the stage by Cheryl L. West, Based on the original screenplay by Doug Atchison
Nov. 1-3 & 8-10, 2024
In a city where being book-smart gets you nowhere and being street-smart is essential, 11 year old Akeelah Anderson feels trapped. She is brilliant but her home life often makes school feel like a chore. When Akeelah finds herself winning her school’s spelling bee, her book-smart brain is suddenly on display for the world to see. Determined to find meaning in spelling, she sets her sights on the National Spelling Bee. Will passion and determination be enough for Akeelah to take home the coveted win? Or will struggling to connect with her peers, family and community be the true challenge?
Fiddler on the Roof
Based on Sholem Aleichem stories by special permission of Arnold Perl, Book by Joseph Stein, Music by Jerry Bock, Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, Produced on the New York Stage by Harold Prince, Original New York Stage Production Directed and Choreographed by Jerome Robbins
Feb. 14-16 & 21-23, 2025
The seemingly simple story of Tevye, a milkman, and his family has been captivating audiences since 1964 when Fiddler on the Roof first debuted on Broadway and won a sensational 9 Tony Awards. This classic musical, set in early 1900s Russia, follows Tevye as he navigates the challenges of being a father to his daughters while the world around him becomes increasingly modern right before his eyes. With the help of his community and family, Tevye learns through a series of challenges that love, faith and tradition are closely intertwined. As we still see today, in some cases love must prevail over tradition and in others our love for tradition and faith is what keeps our community alive.
Stop Kiss
by Diana Son
April 4-6 & 11-13, 2025
Exploring the twists and turns that life and love often force us through, Stop Kiss tells the story of Callie and Sara, two roommates who quickly become much more to each other. This non-linear story artfully guides us through the intricacies of Callie’s relationship with Sara before and after a fateful day the two spend together in New York City’s West Village. As Callie is confronted with the complexities of her feelings for Sara, she must also face the realities that wait for those who exist beyond traditional societal norms. Exploring themes of self-discovery, sexuality and identity within love, Callie and Sara’s story will connect with anyone “who has had to search deep within to find the strength and conviction to join hands with another” according to the Los Angeles Times.
Ticket Information
The Center for Fine and Performing Arts is currently transitioning our ticketing platform to best serve our patrons. Please check back in August, 2024 for further updates on ticket pricing and how to purchase tickets. For any questions or concerns regarding ticketing, please contact CFPA Director, Jerre Brisky.
