3 upcoming events with the ball state theatre and dance tag

By Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Presented by Ball State's Department of Theatre and Dance

Choreographed by Susan Koper, Joseph Lyons, Audra Sokol, Roberta Wong, and Christie Zimmerman

The Nutcracker is the classic holiday tale as you’ve never seen it before—a dreamy collision of magic, mystery, and imagination. Clara’s beloved toy transforms into a valiant prince, whisking her from a war-torn living room to realms filled with snow, sweets, and surreal wonders. Each step of her journey blurs the line between fantasy and reality, revealing the strange beauty hidden beneath tradition. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score guiding the way, this reimagined Nutcracker becomes a wild, whimsical ride through the heart of childhood dreams.

The Ball State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Gregory Robbins, will play the score live.

By Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Presented by Ball State's Department of Theatre and Dance

Choreographed by Susan Koper, Joseph Lyons, Audra Sokol, Roberta Wong, and Christie Zimmerman

The Nutcracker is the classic holiday tale as you’ve never seen it before—a dreamy collision of magic, mystery, and imagination. Clara’s beloved toy transforms into a valiant prince, whisking her from a war-torn living room to realms filled with snow, sweets, and surreal wonders. Each step of her journey blurs the line between fantasy and reality, revealing the strange beauty hidden beneath tradition. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score guiding the way, this reimagined Nutcracker becomes a wild, whimsical ride through the heart of childhood dreams.

The Ball State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Gregory Robbins, will play the score live.

About

This Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of It’s a Wonderful Life is a heartwarming radio drama based on Frank Capra’s classic story. Condensed into about an hour, the production features rich narration, live sound effects, and expressive performances to tell the story of George Bailey—a man who, feeling overwhelmed by life’s burdens, is shown by his guardian angel how profoundly he has touched the lives of others. The radio play beautifully conveys themes of hope, community, and the power of one individual to make a difference—offering an intimate, nostalgic experience that feels both uplifting and deeply human through the magic of radio.
 
IPR Radio Dramas feature community and campus actors, musicians, and singers who, through their live performances, transport listeners to another time—evoking memories of shared experiences and recalling an era when imagination played a central role in entertainment. Live music and sound effects help recreate the authentic atmosphere of the Golden Age of Radio.
 
Audience members play a vital role in the radio drama experience by engaging with the story and reacting to the emotions conveyed through sound and performance.
 
Attendees should be seated by 7:30 p.m. and will enjoy a special pre-show program, including a live sound effects demonstration.
 
Directed by Matthew Reeder. Musical direction by Jim Rhinehart. Sound effects by Leo Blackmer.

Tickets

Tickets are sold through the College of Fine Arts Box Office located at Sursa Hall. Purchase options:

• ONLINE
• Phone: 765-285-8749
• In person: Monday through Friday from Noon to 5 p.m., or starting 1 hour before the performance at the performance venue

**Please note: As part of our commitment to sustainability, all College of Fine Arts tickets are paperless and are accessible via email confirmation. Your confirmation email contains your digital tickets which can be scanned at the door from your mobile device, or you can print your digital tickets at home to be scanned. There is no need to visit Will Call prior to the performance.

Parking

Parking is available in the McKinley Parking Garage (entrance on Ashland Avenue) located immediately south of Sursa Hall. Metered parking is available on the first floor of the garage until 7 p.m. at which time parking is free.