Topics: Arts and Culture, College of Fine Arts, Faculty, Muncie

September 15, 2026

Ball State University's Department of Theatre and Dance will open its 2026-27 production season with The Fantasticks, presented at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17-20 and Sept. 22-26, with a matinee performance at 2:30 p.m. Sept. 27, in Korsgaard Dance Studio, located in Ball Gymnasium, Room 213.

With music by Harvey Schmidt and book and lyrics by Tom Jones, the Ball State production is directed by Sarah Summerwell, assistant teaching professor of acting, with music direction by Jeremy Gussin, assistant teaching professor of musical theatre voice, and choreography by Joseph Lyons-Wolf, assistant teaching professor of jazz, tap, and musical theatre.

Tickets are available through the College of Fine Arts Box Office at Sursa Performance Hall, in person, by phone at 765-285-8749, or online.

A whimsical and imaginative story about love, family, and growing up, The Fantasticks follows two young neighbors who fall in love despite the efforts of their seemingly feuding fathers to keep them apart. Told through music, humor, and theatrical storytelling, the musical explores the difference between romantic ideals and the realities of love and life.

"Our deeply collaborative production of The Fantasticks honors the pioneering spirit of the original production while incorporating new magic for a contemporary audience," Prof. Summerwell said. "Longtime fans of the score will fall in love with our students' gorgeous interpretations of classics like 'Try to Remember' and 'Soon It's Gonna Rain,' as the next generation of theatergoers experiences the avant-garde storytelling with fresh eyes."

The Fantasticks is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.