Spring Theatre season begins Feb. 20

The spring 2004 University Theatre season begins with a Portable Dance Troupe concert, directed by Ruth Griffin, on Feb. 20.

"Leap, Dedicated to Janice Jansen," will be staged Feb. 20-22 and 24-28 in the John Wright Theatre.

For more than 21 years the troupe has presented modern dance ranging from the cutting edge of the avant garde to lyrical modern dance to contemporary ballet.   Each season works are presented from nationally renowned choreographers and resident faculty.   The programs are entertaining, thought provoking and emotionally engaging.

"Cat On A Hot Tin Roof" by Tennessee Williams, directed by Kathleen McKinley, will be presented March 19-21 and 23-27 in the Arena Theatre.

Southern charm and gentility cannot veil the greed, lust and deception in Tennessee William's 1955 masterpiece, "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."   Williams won the Pulitzer Prize, the Drama Critics Award and the Tony Award, for this sizzling exploration of family secrets and sexual repression.

On a steamy, summer evening, at the final birthday celebration for a dying plantation patriarch, offspring ruthlessly vie for the family fortune, as desperate, unspoken desires are revealed.   This drama probes, "Who can face the truth? Can you?"

Note: The play contains adult language and situations.

"Into the Woods," Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by James Lapine, will be performed May 7-9 and 11-15 in the John Wright Theatre. Brad Myers is the director and Scott Hancock the musical director. "Into the Woods" weaves a magic spell that awakens the child's heart within us all. The story includes characters from best-loved fairy tales who venture into the dangerous woods, hoping for a better life.   Their profound struggles will leave you enchanted and forever transformed.

Special Guest Design by internationally famous LiveLight.

Tickets are $7 for Fresno State students with ID; $12 for Fresno State faculty/staff, seniors, members of the Alumni Association (with ID) and students at other schools; and $14 general admission. A dd $2 for "Into The Woods" for all purchasers except Fresno State students.

Box Office Hours are noon to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. For information phone: 8-2216 or e-mail pamd@csufresno.edu .