UK Theatre and Dance announces 2025-26 season

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 31, 2025) — In a colorful event full of confetti and popping balloons, the University of Kentucky’s Department of Theatre and Dance announced on Jan. 30 six productions that will make up its 2025-26 season.

The offerings are a dynamic mix of classical, contemporary and thought-provoking performances, said Susie Thiel, chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance.

“From the whimsical world of ‘Into the Woods’ to the electrifying rhythms of “Hype Man: A Break Beat Play,’ this season promises to captivate and challenge audiences with stories that range from fairy tale fantasy to gritty social realism,” Thiel said.

The department also offers immersive dance experiences in “Visions in Motion” and the groundbreaking student showcase “A Collective in Muse.” With productions guided by passionate faculty and talented students, the upcoming season offers something for every theatergoer, and the chance to experience the vibrant energy of live performance at its finest.

“Into the Woods” — Oct. 16-19, 2025, Guignol Theatre

Directed by Christina Ritter
Music Direction by Ron Wilbur

Book by James Lapine
Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim

“Into the Woods” follows a childless baker and his wife, cursed by a witch, as they embark on a quest to find four items to break the spell. Along the way, they encounter iconic characters from the Brothers Grimm — Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and Rapunzel — all seeking their own fairy tale endings. As wishes are granted, consequences unfold and the characters must confront the reality of their desires. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Lapine, this Tony Award-winning musical is a timeless, enchanting and thought-provoking classic.

“Into the Woods” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.

“Hype Man: Break Beat Play” — November 2025 (specific dates to be announced later), Briggs Theatre

Directed by Jeremy Gillett

“Hype Man: A Break Beat Play” by Idris Goodwin is a raw, electrifying exploration of friendship, race and social justice. As hip-hop artist Pinnacle, his hype man Verb and beatmaker Peep One approach mainstream success, the police shooting of an unarmed black teenager forces them to confront their responsibility as artists. Through pulsating hip-hop rhythms and lyrical confrontation, the play delves into race, privilege and the power of their voices in a divided world. Developed with Company One Theatre, Hype Man asks: Who has the responsibility to speak up in the face of social injustice?

“Visions in Motion: Dance Concert 2026” — Feb. 6-8, 2026, Guignol Theatre

Artistic Director: Laura Neese

Visions in Motion, a dance concert exploring diversity of creative visions manifested in, by, and through the moving body. Visions in Motion takes audiences on a journey celebrating diverse forms of dance artistry, featuring work by UK faculty, guest and student choreographers.

Accessibility note: live audio description will be available for each performance.

“A Collective in Muse” — February 2026 (specific dates to be announced later), College of Fine Arts Building

Artistic Director: Kate Field

“A Collective in Muse” is where stories, movement and art collide. Muse is a two-day event showcasing student projects and research through a variety of live performances. Audiences will move between concurrent “works”—ranging from 10-minute to one-hour pieces—scheduled throughout the day and looped for maximum interaction. With a flexible, exhibition-style structure, attendees can purchase a ticket for the event and freely register for different performances, encouraging exploration across multiple genres. This immersive, dynamic experience gives students the opportunity to showcase and develop their work, while giving audiences the chance to witness a wide range of artistic expressions.

“The Great Gatsby” — April 9-19, Guignol Theatre

Directed and choreographed by Susie Thiel

“The Great Gatsby,” a vibrant celebration of the 1920s that will transport audiences into a world of jazz, flappers, and extravagant parties, set against the backdrop of F. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless critique of the American dream. Adapted by Simon Levy, the only version officially licensed by the Fitzgerald estate, this is a chance to experience a bold and artistic reimagining of a timeless classic that still challenges our view of success, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Through the story, music, dancing, and the Jazz Age prepare to be swept away in the glamour and tragedy of “The Great Gatsby.”

Studio Season and “Materialized: Student Choreography Concert” — Dates and location to be announced later

Stay tuned for exciting updates on our Studio Season and “Materialized: Student Choreography Concert!” These dynamic offerings provide students with the unique opportunity to bring their own creative visions to life, showcasing original work across a variety of disciplines. From the spirited Freshman Cabaret to groundbreaking new plays and collaborations with other colleges, these performances will push boundaries and highlight the incredible talent within our department. Don’t miss out on these innovative, student-driven projects that promise to surprise, inspire and captivate.

The season offers up to 100 students — actors, designers, technicians, stage managers and participants from all fields, whether majors, minors or nonmajors — a chance to apply the skills they’ve acquired in the classroom to a dynamic, real-world environment that goes beyond what any classroom experience could offer. Get ready for an unforgettable experience filled with new opportunities, challenges, and incredible moments.

In addition to Thiel, all productions are overseen by Technical Director and Production Manager Zak Stribling, Scenic Designer Kate Field, Lighting and Sound Designer Jeremiah Kearns, Costume Shop Manager and Designer Lisa Wilson, Theatre and Dance Administration Sarah.

“I am so excited about all these productions. The Department of Theatre and Dance has a rich environment promoting research and creative activity illustrating the intersection of traditional and the new,” said Thiel. “This environment is driven by the committed, passionate, and incredible faculty enthusiasm and mentorship, energized and talented students, significant support from the College of Fine Arts, and our audience who appreciate the value of our ideas and work. We are all thrilled to share our excitement for the upcoming 2025-2026 season.”