The A-State Theatre Department is returning for their second production of the season this weekend with “Ride the Cyclone.”

“Ride the Cyclone” is a musical that leads the audience on a journey alongside a small town’s high school chamber choir after they tragically perish in a roller coaster accident. Their souls are given a chance to compete for a final prize in a strange contest hosted by a mysterious carnival fortune teller. 

Each member must present their own case through song and dance, with the music exploring themes of identity, ambition and the meaning of life. 

Brianna Larson, assistant professor of theatre and dance, is the show’s director. She said the show really fits the theme as a roller coaster of an experience. 

“The show is a wonderful blend of spectacle and heartfelt revelations that these characters undergo.  It is a meal for the eyes, ears, and soul and truly fits the title,” Larson said. 

Jace Hahn, the production’s stage manager, said that the choir members are competing with each other and must each present their case as to why they should be the one to win. 

“They’re doing that mostly through like songs that are talking about like either what their life was or what they wanted their lives to be,” Hahn said.

Luke Holt, a junior theater major from Jonesboro, is playing Noel Gruber. Holt said this production is different from any other they’ve done before. 

“It’s the smallest cast that I’ve worked with in a musical before.” Holt said. “I really love it, it’s been a fun challenge. It’s a lot of exploration and small detail work that I’ve learned to appreciate in this show.” 

The show’s opening night will be a special one, with the show time set for 6:19 p.m., the exact time that the characters in the show face their destinies. This unique setup will create an intimate connection with the audience and the cast as they will both feel the urgency and gravity of the situation as the minutes tick by. 

Performances will be held at 6:19 p.m. Friday, at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 23, 24 and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in the Drama Theatre at the Fowler Center. Arkansas State University students can get in free with their A-State student ID. 

Categories: Arts & Entertainment