UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State School of Theatre has announced the launch of Firefly Rep, a new professional summer theatre initiative within Penn State Centre Stage.
Kicking off June 16-18 with its debut production, "Love Hurts: A Roaring Selection of Shakespeare's Funniest Feuds and Most Romantic Lovers, Quarrels," Firefly Rep promises to bring vibrant, high-quality performances to the heart of central Pennsylvania.
Firefly Rep is the first step in reviving professional summer theatre in State College, offering a stage for professional artists and a destination for theatre lovers from across the region. The Penn State School of Theatre aims to offer a summer theatre experience that will showcase incredible performances, bolster local businesses, and provide the community with unforgettable cultural experiences.
"The idea for summer theatre was sparked from a conversation with members of our acting faculty who are professional actors and who are energized and passionate about connecting with our broader community through theatre," said Kikora Franklin, artistic director and interim director of the School of Theatre. "I am excited and committed to supporting this renewed spirit of creativity and collaborate with faculty, staff, students, business and community partners to bring live theatre to our region."
The inaugural production, "Love Hurts: A Roaring Selection of Shakespeare's Funniest Feuds and Most Romantic Lovers' Quarrels" is a fast-paced, joyous celebration of Shakespeare’s most iconic comedic clashes and passionate duels of the heart. From clever wordplay to star-crossed passion, the show is designed to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages.
Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. June 16, 17 and 18 at the Overlook Pavilion in the Arboretum. There are no tickets required for Arboretum performances. Donations are kindly accepted.
At 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, Firefly Rep will join Penns Woods for a collaboration in the Music Recital Hall titled "Strings, Sonnets, and Shakespeare." This enchanting concert will blend the expressive beauty of string music with the timeless poetry of William Shakespeare. The program will feature original musical settings of Shakespearean sonnets and iconic scenes from The Bard himself, alongside Dvořák’s spirited American Quartet — a vibrant work full of energy and folk-inspired charm.
Tickets are $34 and are available at pwmf.psu.edu or by calling 814-863-0255. (A $4 Ticketmaster fee is added for online ticket purchases. No ticket fee is added when purchased by phone or in person at the Eisenhower Arts Ticket Center.) Non-Penn State Arts and Architecture students can see it for free by visiting the Arts Ticket Centre during the week of the production.
About Penn State Centre Stage
Penn State Centre Stage serves as the professional arm of Penn State’s School of Theatre, providing a platform for professional artists, faculty and students to collaborate in the creation of world-class theatre. With the launch of Firefly Rep, Penn State Centre Stage continues its mission of bringing exceptional theatrical experiences to the community.