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Exploring Humanity Through Drama: UCI's Theatrical Season Unveiled
The University of California, Irvine, Department of Drama invites audiences to embark on a transformative journey through their upcoming theatrical season. From exploring societal biases to navigating the complexities of personal ambition and the reimagining of classic tales, this season promises a rich tapestry of performances. With productions like the 'Theater of Community Festival', 'Gloria', 'Quit Bitchin'', 'La Belle et la Bête', and 'Starmites', each event uniquely captures the essence of human experience and challenges societal norms, making this series a must-watch for theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Dec 2, 2024
Share1. Theater of Community Festival
Rooted in the University of California’s commitments to respect, equity, learning, and justice, the Theater of Community Festival explores through performances, workshops, and dialogue bias and bigotry, particularly anti-Blackness, Islamophobia, and anti-Semitism, while promoting free speech with the aim of developing and sustaining a diverse and equitable community grounded in principles of care and compassion.
Nov 20, 2024 - Mar 1, 2025
UCI Department of Drama
Other · TBA
2. Gloria
Get ready for the explosive Pulitzer Prize finalist Gloria, a dark comedy by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins that skewers the cutthroat culture of modern media. Follow a group of twentysomething editorial assistants at a prestigious Manhattan magazine as they navigate ambition, opportunity, and the pursuit of success. From satire to thriller, this play of wit and irony keeps audiences engaged as the stakes for telling one's own story reach new heights.
Jan 31 - Feb 8, 2025
UCI Department of Drama
Claire Trevor School of the Arts
3. Quit Bitchin'
Step into a world pulsating with energy, where every moment crackles with the intensity of life. Maddie, Tig, and Jules are in a laundromat in rural America, exploding with pent-up rage from young motherhood, workplace misogyny, and uncertainties about marriage. With help from three powerful women who run the local liquor store, Maddie, Tig, and Jules find new freedom to face life with a ferocious courage strong enough to change their lives. Quit Bitchin’ is not just a play—it's a modern reimagining, a fusion of ancient Greek myths and contemporary experiences, so prepare for a journey where every twist is a revelation.
Feb 28 - Mar 15, 2025
UCI Department of Drama
Claire Trevor Theatre
4. La Belle et la Bête
The virtuous Belle, in order to save her bankrupt father’s life, surrenders her person to the Bête, whom she eventually agrees to marry when her feelings of gratitude outweigh the drawbacks of his repulsive physique. This is the moral of the fairytale “Beauty and the Beast” written by Mme. Gabrielle Suzanne Villeneuve in 1742. Driven by her father’s debts to the Paris salons of Louis XIV, impoverished noblewoman and newcomer Mme. Villeneuve is mocked by courtiers. She is befriended by the shabby but infamous poet Crébillon, who prefers animals to humans and honesty to the wit of the court.
2 - 10 May, 2025
UCI Department of Drama
Irvine, CA · Contemporary Arts Center
5. Starmites
Eleanor, a shy teenager, escapes the challenges of growing up by immersing herself in sci-fi comic books. Her life changes dramatically when she is transported into the comic book world where she must learn to harness her inner strength to defeat her foes and lead her allies. Starmites is a vibrant musical with contemporary songs and humor, perfect for all ages, and it combines elements of beloved fantasy series with the energetic spirit of contemporary musical styles: hip-hop, rap, gospel, boy band, female pop ensemble, as well as classic musical theater. This reimagining of the cult-classic Broadway hit promises big laughs and heartfelt moments in the adventurous world of Innerspace.
May 30 - Jun 7, 2025
UCI Department of Drama
Irvine, CA · University of California, Irvine
Conclusion
The UCI Department of Drama's upcoming theatrical season is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to reflect and influence society. Through a diverse array of performances, the department invites audiences to engage with important social issues and timeless narratives, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience. Whether delving into contemporary media culture, exploring myths, or reimagining beloved tales, this season offers something for everyone, encouraging audiences to reflect, question, and, ultimately, grow. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the transformative power of theater.
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