(PRINCETON, NJ) -- Princeton Summer Theater has announced its lineup for the 2017 season. Since its inception over forty years ago, Princeton Summer Theater (PST) has helped launch the careers of hundred of young artists while bringing high-quality, affordable theater to the greater Mercer County area.
This summer’s season explores the interplay between the past and the present. The four diverse selections reflect the challenges posed to us today by a society that is divided over whether it is better to look to the past for inspiration or to move in the direction of future progress. The characters in each play demonstrate vastly different ways of dealing with their individual histories, and are made stronger by facing this adversity. They look forward to sharing these stories with you!
Pippin with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson
June 22nd-25th, June 29th-July 2nd, and July 6th-9th
Directed by Sam Weisberg - A multiple Tony Award-winning musical, Pippin is a mystical coming of age tale of adventure. A mysterious troupe, spearheaded by the enigmatic Leading Player, follows a young prince as he sets out to discover his purpose in the world. Schwartz’s iconic music establishes Pippin as a breathtaking story that explores what it means to live a truly extraordinary life.
Spider's Web by Agatha Christie
July 13th-16th and July 20th-23rd
Directed by C. Luke Soucy - World-renowned crime novelist and playwright Agatha Christie brilliantly blends the genres of mystery, comedy, thriller in this fantasia on her typical whodunit work. Spider’s Web follows eccentric socialite Clarissa, who discovers a man murdered in her drawing room, having spent years spinning extraordinary tales of mystery to anyone who would listen. Drenched in suspense with surprising moments of levity and wit, Spider’s Web offers a unique and rewarding departure from the usual Christie canon.
The Crucible by Arthur Miller
July 27th-30th and August 3rd-6th
Directed by Nico Krell - Regarded as a one of the foremost classics of American theatre, Arthur Miller’s The Crucible uses the proceedings of the Salem witch trials to examine the manic effects of mass hysteria in society. As an increasing number of upstanding townspeople are accused of witchcraft, Miller emphasizes the contagious nature of fear and the elusiveness of truth. The 1953 Tony Award-winning play invites us to question the importance of upholding morality in times of hardship.
Appropriate by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins
August 10th-13th and August 17th-20th
Directed by Tatiana Pandiani - Members of the fragmented Lafayette family reconnect to settle their father’s affairs, but soon discover that they must first tackle their unresolved issues with each other. The Obie Award-winning play incorporates shocking reveals coupled with absurdist undertones that expose what it means to be part of a family, culture, and nation built upon a troubled past. A vivid and original take on the household drama, Appropriate takes its place in the American canon as an incomparable masterpiece.
Performances: Thursday-Saturday at 8:00pm; Saturday & Sunday at 2:00pm
Coming Soon: Their Annual Family Show! July 6th-July 29th. Performances: Thursday-Saturday at 11:00am
Subscription Info: Become a subscriber and save over 30% off their regular ticket price. For just $79, you receive one ticket to each of our four mainstage shows, based on availability. Subscribe today by visiting www.princetonsummertheater.org/tickets or calling 732-997-0205 They are located in the heart of the Princeton University Campus, in the Hamilton Murray Theater across from the University Chapel and Firestone Library. Parking is located off of William Street or in public parking garages in Palmer Square.
Visit www.princetonsummertheater.org for more information.
