“Andersen: A Fairy Tale Life” to Premiere at Washburn University Oct. 21

      Topeka, Kan. - The Washburn University Theatre presents the new musical “Andersen: A Fairy Tale Life” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 21, 22, 28 and 29 and 2 p.m. Oct. 30 in the Neese-Gray Theatre on the Washburn University campus. This event is open to the Washburn community and general public. There is a suggested donation of $10 for general admission, and Washburn students, faculty and staff can attend for free with a Washburn I.D.

      “Andersen: A Fairy Tale Life” is an original musical by playwright June McCarty Clair, lyricist John Clair and composer Derek Hakes. Washburn alumna McCarty Clair was inspired during her travels to Copenhagen while she was a student at Washburn University. The musical follows the struggles of Hans Christian Andersen as he seeks his future fame. The musical was workshopped at Washburn in spring of 2022 and now features a full production. The cast includes Washburn students, alumni, community members and children. Student performers will appear alongside Washburn alumni such as Teri Walton, Leslie and Nicolas Carr and Hannah Kirby.

      “Having the opportunity to work on a new musical is a great experience for our students,” said Julie Noonan, associate professor in the theatre department at Washburn University. “In addition, we have alums returning to the Washburn University stage working with our current students to bring this heart-warming, family-friendly story to life.”

      Tickets may be reserved at https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/66908 or prior to performances at the Washburn Theatre box office. All donations will go toward Washburn Theatre scholarships. For more details visit the Washburn University Theatre website at www.washburn.edu/theatre. 

      As part of Washburn Homecoming festivities, the playwrights will be on campus for opening weekend. This event is sponsored by the Washburn University theatre department.

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