WCU's DepT. of Theatre & Dance Announces 2026-2027 Season
West Chester University's Department of Theatre and Dance invites audiences to experience another exciting season of exceptional performances featuring Broadway-caliber musicals, thought-provoking dramas, original student works, and inspiring dance concerts. The 2026–2027 season explores timeless questions of identity, justice, redemption, and the human experience through a dynamic lineup of productions performed by talented West Chester University students. For more information, visit www.wcupa.edu/TheatreDanceTickets.
Department of Theatre and Dance productions are held in one of three intimate performance venues on West Chester University’s campus: The J. Peter Adler Studio Theatre and MainStage Theatre, both in E.O. Bull Center for the Arts, 2 E. Rosedale Avenue, West Chester; and the Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre, Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center, 817 S. High Street, West Chester. Free parking is available behind both buildings.
2026–2027 THEATRE & DANCE SEASON
Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre, Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center Presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW).
Inspired by true events, Bright Star is a sweeping tale of love, loss, and redemption set in the American South during the 1920s and 1940s. Literary editor Alice Murphy's chance encounter with a young soldier returning from World War II sends her on a journey to confront her past. Featuring a soaring, Grammy-nominated Americana score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, this uplifting musical celebrates resilience, hope, and the power of storytelling.
Fall Dance Concert November 6 at 7:30 p.m.; November 7 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre, Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center
University Dance Company's annual Fall Dance Concert showcases original choreography by WCU faculty, professional guest artists, and selected student choreographers in an exciting evening of contemporary dance.
Sacco & Venzetti: A Tragedia dell'Arte: By WCU Professor John Bellomo November 19–21 at 7:30 p.m.; November 21 and 22 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
J.P. Adler Studio Theatre, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts
In 1919, Italian immigrants Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were arrested for robbery and murder in a trial that became one of the most controversial legal cases in American history. Through the vibrant theatrical style of commedia dell'arte, this compelling production explores themes of prejudice, justice, and political persecution, using humor to illuminate the tragic story that sparked international outrage.
Bacchae: By Euripides February 25–27 at 7:30 p.m.; February 28 at 2:00 p.m.
MainStage Theatre, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts
What happens when a society becomes so divided that no one can agree on what is true? In Euripides' The Bacchae, power, belief, and identity collide in a gripping struggle that spirals into chaos. Written more than 2,000 years ago, this enduring Greek tragedy remains strikingly relevant, exploring political arrogance, cultural division, and humanity's search for belonging.
Student Written One Acts: By the Students of THA313 March 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m.; March 20 and 21 at 2:00 p.m.
J.P. Adler Studio Theatre, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts
Experience an evening of original theatre written, directed, designed, and performed entirely by West Chester University students. Created through the Theatre 313 Playwriting course, these short plays explore themes and experiences that resonate with today's students while showcasing the next generation of theatre artists.
Everybody: By Branden Jacobs-Jenkins April 8–10 at 7:30 p.m.; April 10 and 11 at 2:00 p.m. J.P. Adler Studio Theatre, E.O. Bull Center for the Arts
When Death unexpectedly arrives with a simple announcement, Everybody must decide what truly matters. Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' inventive and surprisingly funny adaptation transforms a 15th-century morality play into a contemporary meditation on life, mortality, and human connection. Blending comedy, philosophy, and theatrical innovation, Everybody offers audiences an unforgettable and thought-provoking experience.
Spring Dance Concert April 22–24 at 7:30 p.m.; April 24 at 2:00 p.m.
Madeleine Wing Adler Theatre, Swope Music Building and Performing Arts Center
The University Dance Company's annual Spring Dance Concert celebrates the creativity and artistry of WCU student choreographers and performers through an eclectic program featuring a variety of dance styles.
Tickets are available at www.wcupa.edu/TheatreDanceTickets. General Admission tickets are $20 plus processing fees, with discounts available for veterans, Senior Citizens age 60+, and WCU students, faculty, and staff with valid I.D. Admission for Student Written One Acts is $5 at the door on the day of the event, with no advance online purchase available; proceeds benefit the department.