Missouri State University’s Tent Theatre is celebrating 64 seasons this summer and laying the groundwork for an even bigger 65th season.  

While construction on the Judith Enyeart Reynolds Performing Arts Complex continues on campus, Sarah Wiggin, Tent Theatre interim artistic director and theatre and dance professor, has crafted a two-show season designed to delight audiences and build excitement for what’s ahead. 

“We needed the shows to be smaller, easily contained and easily performed with limited resources,” she said.  

Without a scene shop, the company can’t build large sets. But Wiggin said both productions turn that limitation into an asset by relying on the amphitheatre’s LED wall and the creativity of the cast.  

“Oh, they’re great fun,” she added. 

Read the full transcript

About the shows 

This summer’s theme is “Timeless,” and both productions deliver on that promise. The lineup of two shows includes:  

• Around the World in 80 Days, June 18-20, 22-26 

Action, danger and hilarious hijinks abound in a clever adaptation of Jules Verne’s timeless adventure tale. Come along on this unforgettable journey where just five actors will play every role in the show.  

• Beehive: The 60s Musical, July 8-11, 13-18 

Beehive returns to Tent Theatre by popular demand. The revue, which celebrates women vocalists and songwriters of the 1960s, was previously staged in 2021 under COVID-19 restrictions with limited audiences. This time, it gets the full outdoor summer experience it was designed for with more than 30 timeless hits by female superstars.   

Both casts include Missouri State students alongside performers recruited from across the country. 

What to expect on your visit 

Craig Hall remains closed for construction, so patrons should plan a layout similar to last summer. Concessions and restrooms will be located in Hill Hall to the north. Some walking routes to the John Goodman Amphitheatre will be longer than usual due to ongoing work. Golf carts will be available for patrons with mobility needs. 

For up-to-date information on parking, access routes and accessibility options, visit the Tent Theatre website. 

The Craig Hall box office is also closed. Tickets can be purchased: 

• Online  
• By phone – call Missouri State TIX at 417-836-7678 or toll free at 1-888-476-7849   
• In person – visit the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts box office, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. 

Individual tickets went on sale May 1. All shows start at 8 p.m. in the John Goodman Amphitheatre. Any last-minute show changes will be posted to Tent Theatre’s social media. 

Looking ahead 

Wiggin sees this season as more than just two shows; it’s a preview of bigger things to come. Next year, Tent Theatre’s 65th season is expected to celebrate in full force, with hopes for three larger productions, a fully renovated Craig Hall and the new performing arts complex open for business. 

“I hope that by attending this summer, they’ll get a glimpse of, ‘I can’t wait until it’s back next year as strong as it has ever been,’” she said. “We’re really excited about celebrating our 65th.” 

Purchase tickets