MINOT — While rehearsals for Summer Theatre’s 57th season are held inside, construction on the amphitheater north of campus is wrapping up.
“We are extremely thankful to be able to use the Arvel Graving Theatre at Magic City Campus and Ann Nicole Nelson Hall here at MSU while our primary rehearsal space in Hartnett Hall is also being renovated,” said Chad Gifford, Summer Theatre artistic director.
The season, slightly pushed back due to late spring snowstorms delaying construction, opens on June 20 and features four shows.
“Something Rotten!” will run June 20-26, followed by “A Taste of Things to Come” on June 30, July 1-3, and 5-7. Performances of “Moon Over Buffalo” will be held July 15-17 and 19-21. The season will conclude with “The Sound of Music” July 28-31 and Aug. 2-5.
“While our first two shows do have a PG-13 rating, our second two shows will be fun for the whole family,” said Gifford. “It’s great to go back to our traditional four show format so there is a show for everyone.”
The Summer Theatre amphitheater looks quite different after two years of intensive renovations.
“Audiences will enter in a brand-new plaza and immediately see the new ticket window and concessions stand,” said Gifford. “Our new wider entrance will make heading toward your seats even easier and when it’s time to go home, you’ll enjoy having someone able to drive up and pick you up in our new drive through.”
Phase One, completed before the 2021 season, focused on accessibility, including integrating handicap seating in each section, increased space for aisles and handrails, and replacing the upper-level deck.
Phase Two began immediately after the summer season and features a complete renovation of the existing complex including bathrooms, ticket office, dressing rooms, and office space, along with a new plaza, drive-through, and lower-level concessions.
Tickets are available for purchase at MinotStateU.edu/theatre or by calling the ticket line at 701-858-3228. All performances begin at 8:30 p.m. Follow the theatre on Facebook at MSU Summer Theatre to learn more about Season 57.
