From Tigers Pride to Broadway Vibes: A Guide to Unmissable Musicals and Comedy
Dakota Wesleyan University’s home crowd always seeks new ways to blend vibrant school spirit with top-notch entertainment. Whether you’re cheering for the fierce Dakota Wesleyan Tigers on the court or indulging in the thrill of a big Broadway musical, this guide brings you an eclectic mix of shows and stand-up acts that promise to captivate.
Best of all, you can enjoy a special discount courtesy of TicketSmarter by using the promo code “TIGERS” at checkout. Let’s dive right in and explore these sensational performances!
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Debut and Early Days: First introduced on Broadway in 2002, Hairspray quickly became a fan favorite for its upbeat tunes and vibrant style.
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Notable Performers: The musical propelled Harvey Fierstein and Marissa Jaret Winokur into the limelight, each collecting Tony Awards for their roles.
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Energetic Numbers: Audiences often find themselves humming along to memorable hits like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”
If big hair, heartwarming humor, and nonstop dancing appeal to your senses, Hairspray might be the next show to see live. The splashy colors and the strong message about acceptance make it a timeless spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Jeff Arcuri has been carving his path in the comedy scene with a highly personal style that merges observational humor and a dash of self-deprecation. Raised in Detroit, Michigan, he often jokes about Midwest living, finding laughs in everyday struggles and oddities. His comedic approach led to a successful 2022 stand-up special that introduced him to a broader audience, showcasing rapid-fire punchlines and quick wit. Arcuri’s biographical tidbits usually revolve around how his humble upbringing shaped his comedic perspective, making his sets relatable to anyone who enjoys earnest banter with a surprising twist.
Widely regarded as a technological marvel, The Lion King has enthralled global audiences since its Broadway debut in 1997. Its director, Julie Taymor, made history as the first woman to receive a Tony Award for directing a musical, an accolade that catapulted the show’s reputation for innovation. Spectators often praise the grand parade of life-size puppetry and the rhythmic African-inspired score by Elton John and Tim Rice. Fun fact: The stage production reimagined certain characters from the 1994 Disney animated film to enhance the African cultural essence, adding new songs like “Shadowland” and elaborate dance routines.
Tina Fey’s comedic genius meets flashy show tunes in Mean Girls, a musical adaptation that burst onto Broadway in 2018. The story focuses on Cady Heron, a teenager fresh from Africa, navigating the treacherous social terrain of North Shore High. Notable for its witty script and pop-inspired music, Mean Girls garnered multiple Tony nominations shortly after its opening. Its lyrics emphasize a more modern approach to high school drama compared to the 2004 film, blending humor with timely themes of self-awareness and empathy.
Leanne Morgan’s southern charm infuses her stand-up sets with a warm, conversational twist that resonates with viewers across the country. Her 2020 Netflix special, I’m Every Woman, catapulted her popularity, showcasing her comedic take on family life, motherhood, and everyday experiences in a Tennessee accent she describes as “melted butter.” Before hitting the big stage, Morgan found humor in her daily routine, using comedic storytelling as a way to process life’s mundane events. She often credits her small-town upbringing for her ability to tackle big-city issues with wit and wisdom.
Breaking tradition and rewriting an iconic love story, &Juliet offers a vibrant, modern spin on Shakespeare’s classic heroine. Debuting in London’s West End in 2019, the show quickly gained notoriety for its jukebox-style format featuring chart-topping hits by songwriter Max Martin, such as “Roar” and “...Baby One More Time.” Critics praise its message of empowerment, focusing on what might happen if Juliet decided to live life on her own terms after Romeo’s departure from the narrative.
Few musicals boast the global acclaim of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera. Opening on London’s West End in 1986 before making its way to Broadway two years later, it has collected Olivier and Tony Awards, solidifying its spot as a theatrical legend. Over the years, numerous Broadway heavyweights, such as Michael Crawford and Sierra Boggess, have stepped into leading roles, mesmerizing audiences with the show’s unforgettable music.
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Origins: Moulin Rouge the musical draws inspiration from the 2001 Baz Luhrmann film, which itself captured the flamboyant spirit of the historic Parisian cabaret founded in 1889.
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Notable Opening: The stage adaptation dazzled Broadway audiences when it opened in 2019, complete with contemporary pop remixes woven into its bohemian atmosphere.
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Accolades: In 2021, it claimed 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, solidifying its broad appeal.
“Moulin Rouge” stands out for bending genres, mixing beloved pop hits with theatrical grandeur, and emphasizing freedom of expression.
Brad Williams has made a significant name for himself with a comedic style that combines autobiographical insights, punchy storytelling, and a fearless approach to taboo topics. Born in Orange, Calif., Williams began performing stand-up in his early 20s, quickly attracting attention for his sharp, unflinching commentary. His 2020 comedy special, “Fun Size & Fully Loaded,” showcased not just physical humor, but also a deeper introspection about social norms and identity.
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton exploded onto the Broadway scene in 2015, ingeniously blending hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes while recounting the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. The show was instantly praised for its multicultural casting, intense lyricism, and complex storytelling. After premiering off-Broadway at The Public Theater, Hamilton transferred to the Richard Rodgers Theatre, where it collected a staggering 11 Tony Awards.
Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations captures the dramatic rise of the Motown group that delivered timeless hits. Debuting on Broadway in 2019, the musical recounts how The Temptations rose from humble roots in Detroit to international superstars under the Motown label. Unique historical tidbit: During its developmental stages, the creative team consulted closely with Otis Williams, one of the last surviving members of the original lineup. This authenticity helped the show secure multiple Tony nominations, with critics particularly drawn to the dazzling choreography.
A folk-infused retelling of the Orpheus and Eurydice myth, Hadestown began as a folk opera concept album by Anaïs Mitchell in 2010. After workshops and off-Broadway runs, the show officially opened on Broadway in 2019, gathering multiple Tony Awards including Best Musical. With a musical style that intertwines New Orleans jazz, gospel, and blues, Hadestown offers a hauntingly beautiful new perspective on Greek mythology. Unlike more traditional musicals, it immerses viewers in a mythical underground factory setting, capturing themes of love, struggle, and hope amidst adversity.
Since flying onto Broadway in 2003, Wicked has soared to new heights, offering a backstory to the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz. The musical intricately explores the friendship and rivalry between Elphaba (the misunderstood Wicked Witch) and Glinda (the popular yet conflicted Good Witch). Composer Stephen Schwartz infused the production with unforgettable numbers like “Defying Gravity,” which has become an anthem for personal growth. Wicked garnered three Tony Awards and a Grammy for its original cast album, solidifying its place among Broadway’s blockbuster hits.
Taylor Tomlinson’s path to stand-up stardom is built on brutally honest comedy about dating, personal anxieties, and millennial life. Hailing from California, she earned a nationwide following through appearances on late-night TV, ultimately releasing a 2020 Netflix special called Quarter-Life Crisis. Her comedic flair strikes a balance between vulnerability and sharp wit, as she openly discusses the challenges of navigating adulthood. She often references her traditional upbringing in her act, highlighting the comedic gaps between her strict childhood and the realities of modern life.
A fierce pop concert disguised as a musical, Six reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as modern-day pop icons. Developed initially by Cambridge University students Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss in 2017, it hit the West End by 2018 and made its Broadway debut a few years later, earning a Tony for Best Original Score in 2022. Each queen claims the spotlight, singing her story in a pop anthem that channels everything from hip-hop to electro beats. Interestingly, the creative team scoured library archives for diaries and letters to ensure authentic references to Tudor history, albeit with a contemporary twist.
Spotlight on Mitchell’s Theater Scene
Now that we’ve explored a variety of marquee musicals and stand-up comics, it’s time to highlight the local theaters near Mitchell, South Dakota:
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Pepsi-Cola Theatre for the Performing Arts: This intimate space often features regional plays, local musicals, and community-based events. It boasts a comfortable setting, perfect for families seeking a relaxed night out.
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Mitchell Area Community Theatre: A hub for aspiring actors and seasoned directors alike. Here, you’ll find theatrical classics, children’s productions, and volunteer opportunities if you’re keen on stepping into the spotlight.
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Mitchell Corn Palace: While not a traditional theater, the Corn Palace frequently hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other live gatherings that bring big-city flair to this unique Midwestern landmark.
Secure Your Tickets Today
Wherever your interests lie, there’s likely a thrilling ticket awaiting you. Don’t forget to claim your discount at TicketSmarter using promo code “TIGERS” when you check out online. Secure your seats today, and get ready for an unforgettable night out.