The Texas Woman’s University (TWU) Musical Theatre program is set to begin its first complete season of productions with its presentation of Zombie Prom at the Margo Jones Performance Hall. The performances are scheduled from October 30 to November 1.
The musical theatre program, which recently introduced its new undergraduate degree, launched in fall last year. This year, under the direction of first-year artistic manager Julio Agustin Matos Jr., the program will showcase a full season of performances.
“The challenge is that everything is new,” Matos stated regarding the fresh start for the program. He explained the need for collaboration among team members to produce performance-ready shows, highlighting the current focus on integrating theatre elements with established music components.
Zombie Prom, chosen to align with Denton’s 31 Days of Halloween, features music by Dana P. Rowe and book and lyrics by John Dempsey. Matos describes the show as a “1950’s style” production, drawing a comparison to Grease, “except add a zombie.”
- Performances:
Oct. 30-31, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 1, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. - Tickets:
$10 for adults, including TWU faculty and staff
$5 for students and senior citizens
Free for children under 12
The story of Zombie Prom unfolds in a high school near a nuclear power plant where a rebel returns as a zombie after a love affair turns tragic. Matos assures that the production is “family friendly,” offering “silly fun” for all ages.
TWU’s Musical Theatre program continues to develop its offerings with upcoming events such as a performance at the Circle of Light holiday festival and a spring collaboration with the Theatre Division on a new musical titled Love and Loss.
The program is benefiting from support and a donation from Nancy and Ted Paup, along with Laura Estrada, which helps fund production costs.
“We’ve got a small but enthusiastic start, and we are inviting students to join us,” said Matos, noting efforts to work with local two-year colleges to recruit future talent.