The Taylor Theatre Playbills collection features programs from Taylor’s stage productions, including Taylor Theatre, musicals, playback theatre, and Taylor’s Touring Company. Some operas are also included.
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Guys & Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway
Damon Runyon, Jo Swerling, and Abe Burrows
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Guys & Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway based on a story amd characters of Damon Runyan and a book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser.
Performed April 25, 2025 at 8:00pm, April 26 & May 2-3, 2025 at 7:30pm and April 27 & May 4, 2025 at 2:00pm in the Mitchell Theatre at Taylor University.
Set in the colorful, fictional world of Damon Runyon's New York City, Guys and Dolls is a musical comedy that intertwines two distinct love stories among the city's gamblers and showgirls. The plot centers on Nathan Detroit, a lovable hustler who needs money to host his illegal craps game, and his long-suffering fiancée, Miss Adelaide, a nightclub singer who has been waiting 14 years to get married. Nathan bets high-rolling gambler Sky Masterson that Sky cannot get a virtuous mission worker, Sister Sarah Brown, to go on a date with him to Havana. As Sky attempts to win the bet, he and Sarah unexpectedly fall in love, while Nathan's elaborate schemes and Adelaide's chronic "psycho-somatical" cold put their own relationship to the test. The musical is a classic "fable of Broadway" filled with memorable characters, witty dialogue, and Frank Loesser's iconic, show-stopping score.
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Sense and Sensibility
Kate Hamill and Jane Austen
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Kate Hamill's Sense and Sensibility based on the book by Jane Austen.
Performed on February 20-22, 2025 at 7:30pm and February 22-23 2025 at 2:00pm in the Mitchell Theatre at Taylor University.
Kate Hamill's adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility is a witty and fast-paced theatrical production that condenses the original novel's plot while emphasizing its comedic and satirical elements. The play follows the Dashwood sisters, the pragmatic Elinor and the romantic Marianne, as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and societal expectations after their family is left in poverty. Hamill's version utilizes a "gossiping chorus" of actors who play multiple roles and narrate the story, creating a lively and self-aware commentary on the events. The adaptation is known for its physical comedy, inventive staging, and a heightened, almost farcical, tone that distinguishes it from more traditional adaptations, while still honoring the heart of Austen's classic tale.
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The Madwoman of Chaillot
Jean Giraudaux and Maurice Valency
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of The Madwoman of Chaillot by Jean Giraudoux and adapted by Maurice Valency.
Performed on November 8-9, 2024 at 7:30pm and November 10, 2024 at 2:00pm in the Mitchell Theatre at Taylor University.
Jean Giraudoux's The Madwoman of Chaillot, adapted by Maurice Valency, is a poetic and satirical fable that critiques capitalism and greed. The play is set in Paris, where a group of greedy businessmen plans to tear up the city to drill for oil. Their plans are discovered by Countess Aurelia, the titular Madwoman, a wonderfully eccentric and idealistic woman who believes in the goodness of humanity. Along with her fellow "madwomen" and a collection of other Parisian outcasts—including a Ragpicker and a Sewer Man—she devises a plan to lure the financiers into a hidden, bottomless pit in her cellar. Through this act, they condemn the corrupt men and symbolically rid the world of their destructive influence. The play is a celebration of art, love, and humanity's whimsical spirit triumphing over the cold, materialistic forces that seek to destroy it.
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Will We Ever Be Well?
Ris Bland
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Will We Ever Be Well? by Ris Bland in collaboration with Tracy Manning.
Performed September 12, 2024 in the Butz-Caruth Recital Hall at Taylor University.
Will We Ever Be Well? is a play based on the true crime stories of Dr. Helene Knabe, Alice Martin, Mollie Starbuck and the twins who were possibly born to Mr. & Mrs. Frank McNally.
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Disney's Newsies:The Musical
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Disney's Newsies:The Musical. Book by Harvey Fierstein. Music by Alen Menken. Lyrics by Jack Feldman.
Performed April 26-28 & May 3-5, 2024 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Disney's Newsies is a vibrant and inspiring musical based on the 1992 film and inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City. The story follows Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy who dreams of a better life. When newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer raises the prices that newsies must pay for papers, Jack and his fellow newsboys form a union and organize a strike to fight for their rights. With the help of young reporter Katherine Plummer, the newsies rally together to challenge the powerful publishers. The musical features energetic dance numbers and memorable songs like "Seize the Day" and "Santa Fe," celebrating themes of resilience, justice, and the strength of youth.
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All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Robert Fulghum’s All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten adapted by Ernest Zulia and composed by David Caldwell.
Performed February 23-25, 2024 at the Mitchell Theatre.
All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten is a musical adaptation of Robert Fulghum's book, brought to life by Ernest Zulia and David Caldwell. The play captures the essence of Fulghum's essays, which reflect on the simple yet profound lessons learned in kindergarten, such as sharing, playing fair, and living a balanced life. Through a series of vignettes and musical numbers, the adaptation explores themes of love, community, and the wisdom found in everyday experiences. It emphasizes the importance of kindness, curiosity, and the joy of life's small moments.
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Everybody
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Everybody by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins.
Performed September 14-17, 2023 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Everybody is a modern adaptation of the 15th-century morality play Everyman. The story follows a character named Everybody, who is summoned by Death to embark on a journey to account for their life and choices before God. As Everybody seeks companionship for this final journey, they encounter personifications of abstract concepts like Friendship, Kinship, Stuff, Mind, and Love. The play uses a unique casting lottery system, where roles are assigned randomly at each performance, symbolizing the unpredictability of death. Through its exploration of existential questions and the human condition, Everybody connects medieval anxieties about mortality with contemporary themes of identity and purpose.
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Macbeth
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Macbeth by William Shakespeare.
Performed February 24-26 & March 3-5 2023 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Macbeth is a tragedy that delves into themes of ambition, power, and guilt. The play follows the rise and fall of Macbeth, a Scottish nobleman, who is driven by a prophecy from three witches and the manipulative encouragement of his wife, Lady Macbeth. After murdering King Duncan to seize the throne, Macbeth's reign is marked by paranoia and tyranny, leading to further bloodshed and his eventual downfall. The play explores the psychological effects of ambition and the moral consequences of unchecked power.
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White Christmas
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of White Christmas. Book by David Ives & Paul Blake. Music & lyrics by Irving Berlin.
Performed November 11-13, 18, 20 & December 2-4, 2022 at the Mitchell Theatre.
White Christmas is a heartwarming musical based on the 1954 film of the same name, with a book by David Ives and Paul Blake, and music and lyrics by Irving Berlin. The story follows two World War II veterans, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who have become successful song-and-dance performers. They team up with a sister act, Betty and Judy Haynes, and travel to Vermont for a Christmas show at a struggling inn owned by their former commanding officer, General Waverly. Through misunderstandings and romantic entanglements, the group works together to save the inn and bring holiday cheer. The musical features classic songs like "White Christmas" and "Blue Skies," and celebrates themes of friendship, love, and the magic of the holiday season.
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The Birds
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of The Birds by Conor McPherson adapted from the short story of Daphne Du Maurier.
Performed September 15-18, 2022 at the Mitchell Theatre.
The Birds is set in an isolated house where two strangers, Nat and Diane, seek refuge from relentless attacks by flocks of birds. As they struggle to survive with limited resources and no electricity, their fragile sanctuary is further disrupted by the arrival of a young woman named Julia. The tension inside the house mirrors the chaos outside, as paranoia and fear take hold. McPherson's adaptation delves into the psychological and emotional strains of the characters, creating a claustrophobic and unsettling atmosphere that explores themes of survival, trust, and human vulnerability.
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Annie
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Annie with book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse and music by Martin Charnin.
Annie is a beloved musical with music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin, and a book by Thomas Meehan.The musical is set during the Great Depression and follows the story of a young orphan named Annie. Living in a miserable orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan, Annie's life changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas with the wealthy Oliver Warbucks. Despite various challenges and schemes by Miss Hannigan, Annie's optimism and determination lead to a heartwarming conclusion where she finds a new family and a brighter future. The musical features iconic songs like "Tomorrow" and "It's the Hard-Knock Life," and has been celebrated for its uplifting message and memorable characters.
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To Kill A Mockingbird
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee, dramatized by Christopher Sergel.
Performed February 18-20 & 25-27, 2022 at the Mitchell Theatre.
To Kill A Mockingbird is a dramatization by Christopher Sergel of Harper Lee's classic novel. Set in the racially segregated South during the 1930s, the play follows young Scout Finch and her brother Jem as they witness their father, Atticus Finch, defend Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. Through Scout's eyes, the story explores themes of racial injustice, moral integrity, and the loss of innocence. The play captures the essence of the novel's powerful commentary on prejudice and the importance of empathy and understanding.
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The Women of Lockerbie
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of The Women of Lockerbie by Deborah Brevoort..
Performed October 29-31 & November 5-7, 2021 at the Mitchell Theatre.
The Women of Lockerbie is a poignant drama inspired by the real-life aftermath of the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. The play follows a grieving mother from New Jersey who roams the hills of Lockerbie, searching for her son's remains. She encounters the women of Lockerbie, who are fighting the U.S. government to retrieve the clothing of the victims found in the wreckage. These women aim to wash the clothes and return them to the families, transforming an act of hatred into one of love. The play explores themes of grief, healing, and the power of community and compassion.
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Borrowed Babies
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Borrowed Babies by Jennifer Blackmer.
Performed September 10-12, 2021 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Borrowed Babies is a play by Jennifer Blackmer that delves into the historical practice of university "practice houses" for home economics students. The story follows Judy London, a Professor of Home Economics, who encounters one of her former "practice babies" as she nears the end of her career. This meeting prompts Judy to reflect on her life's journey and the sacrifices she has made. The play explores the evolving roles of women and mothers in American society over the past sixty years, highlighting themes of identity, legacy, and the impact of societal expectations
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An Enemy of the People
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of An Enemy of the People by Henrik Ibsen.
Performed February 28-March 1, 6-8, 2020 at the Mitchell Theatre.
An Enemy of the People explores themes of truth, integrity, and the conflict between individual and societal interests. The story centers on Dr. Thomas Stockmann, a medical officer in a small Norwegian town, who discovers that the local baths, a major source of income for the town, are contaminated and pose a serious health risk. When he attempts to go public with his findings, he faces intense opposition from the town's leaders, including his brother, the mayor, who fear the economic repercussions. As the townspeople turn against him, Dr. Stockmann becomes a symbol of the struggle for truth and moral courage against the pressures of conformity and self-interest. The play raises important questions about the responsibilities of individuals and communities in addressing inconvenient truths.
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Much Ado About Nothing
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of William Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing.
Performed November 15-17 & 22-24, 2019 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Much Ado About Nothing is a comedic play that revolves around the romantic entanglements and misunderstandings of two couples. The witty and sharp-tongued Beatrice and Benedick engage in a "merry war" of words, while the young lovers Hero and Claudio face obstacles due to deceit and false accusations. The play is set in Messina and features themes of love, honor, and the consequences of deception. Through clever dialogue and humorous situations, William Shakespeare explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of trust and forgiveness.
Instead of the original setting of the play in 15th Century Italy the director changed it to 1944 England, just days before D-Day. The language is Shakespeare's, but the presentation is WWII.
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Falling
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Falling by Deanna Jent.
Performed September 20-22 2019 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Falling is a poignant and deeply moving play that explores the challenges faced by a family raising a teenage son with severe autism. The story centers on the daily struggles and emotional complexities of the family, particularly the parents, as they navigate the demands of caring for their son, Josh. When a relative visits, the family's delicate balance is disrupted, revealing the intense pressures and sacrifices involved. The play highlights themes of unconditional love, resilience, and the impact of autism on family dynamics. Drawing from Jent's own experiences, Falling offers an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of the realities faced by families dealing with autism.
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The Mousetrap
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap.
Performed April 26-28 & May 3-5, 2019 at the Mitchell Theatre.
The Mousetrap is a classic murder mystery play by Agatha Christie. Set in the remote Monkswell Manor, the story begins as a group of strangers is stranded by a snowstorm. The guests include a newlywed couple, a retired army major, an architect, a mysterious foreigner, and a stern magistrate. Tensions rise when they learn that a murderer is among them, and a police sergeant arrives to investigate. As secrets are revealed and suspicions grow, the play builds to a surprising and suspenseful climax.
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Metamorphoses
The playbill for Taylor University’s performance of Metamorphoses by Mary Zimmerman.
Performed February 22-24 and March 1-3, 2018 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Called by Time the “theater event of the year,” Mary Zimmerman’s Metamorphoses brings Ovid’s tales to stunning visual life. Set in and around a large pool of water, Metamorphoses juxtaposes the ancient and the contemporary in both language and image to reflect the variety and persistence of narrative in the face of inevitable change. Nominated for three 2002 Tony Awards, including “Best Play,” Metamorphoses earned Zimmerman a Tony for “Best Direction of a Play.”
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Into the Woods
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of Into the Woods. Book by James Lapine. Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
Performed November 9-11 & 16-18, 2018 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Into the Woods is a musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by James Lapine. It intertwines the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales, exploring the consequences of the characters' wishes and quests. The story follows a Baker and his Wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King's festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. Their journeys intersect in the woods, where they encounter other fairy tale characters like Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and the Witch. The musical delves into themes of responsibility, the complexity of human desires, and the moral implications of actions.
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The Amish Project
The playbill for Taylor University's performance of The Amish Project by Jessica Dickey.
Performed September 13-16, 2018 at the Mitchell Theatre. This was the 2018 Jason Francis Memorial Scholarship Show.
The Amish Project is a powerful and thought-provoking play by Jessica Dickey that explores the fictionalized aftermath of the real-life 2006 West Nickel Mines Amish School shooting. The play delves into themes of forgiveness, compassion, and community resilience in the face of tragedy. It portrays the complex emotional journey of the Amish community as they navigate their grief and the necessity of forgiveness to heal and survive.
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Disney and Cameron Mackintosh's Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical
The playbill for Taylor University’s performance of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Marry Poppins: The Broadway Musical.
Performed April 27-29 and May 4-6, 2018 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren't the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises, “Anything can happen if you let it.” A musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film.
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Why We Must Die So Young: The Story of the White Rose Martyrs
The playbill for Taylor University’s performance of Why We Must Die So Young: The Story of the White Rose Martyrs by William Gebby.
Performed February 23-25, 2018 at the Mitchell Theatre.
During the darkest days of WWII, a handful of German college students distributed thousands of anti-Nazi leaflets and worked toward unifying resistance across Germany. They called themselves the White Rose, and their faith drew them to engage in a fight that would cost them their lives. William Gebby’s brand new play celebrates the lives of these brave young people who would not and will not be silent. The TU Theatre students have worked with the playwright to workshop the play and present it for it’s first-ever performance.
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Cyrano de Bergerac
The playbill for Taylor University’s performance of Cyrano de Bergerac, based on the translation written by Anthony Burgess of the play written by Edmund Rostand.
Performed November 10-12, 17-19, 2017 at the Mitchell Theatre.
Dashing, proud, and romantic, Cyrano is one of the most memorable figures in theatre history. Known throughout Paris for his unmatched bravery and the charm of his verse, poet Cyrano de Bergerac has one problem—his enormous nose. During an age of gallant musketeers and extravagant lifestyles, this beautiful soul is damned by his marred appearance. Not one to give up, Cyrano joins forces with the handsome but slow-witted soldier, Christian, to woo Roxane, the woman they both love. With Christian’s looks and Cyrano’s soul they quickly win her heart, but can Cyrano watch his beloved marry someone else? Equally hilarious and tragic, Edmond Rostand's classic verse play is one of the most popular romances to ever grace the stage.
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Moments
Taylor's first-ever dance production is review of our musical history. It includes numbers from past shows, such as Oklahoma!, current works that have come out of dance classes, and previews of upcoming performances, such as The Pirates of Penzance and Mary Poppins. Don't miss this incredible night of storytelling through dance!
Performed October 6-7, 2017 at the Mitchell Theatre.