MSU Theatre Brings Roller Derby to the Arena Theatre

MSU Theatre Brings Roller Derby to the Arena Theatre

Michigan State University’s Department of Theatre presents For The Love Of (or, The Roller Derby Play) Nov. 11-20 in the Arena Theater of the MSU Auditorium Building.

The play, written by Gina Femia, follows the story of derby player Joy who can’t believe when she is invited to join the Brooklyn Scallywags along with the league’s star player, Lizzie Lightning. When bout bruises and scars transcend from the physical to emotional, Joy and her long-term partner, Michelle, discover how much they’re willing to sacrifice to follow their hearts. 

Medium shot of four young women in black helmets, purple shirts, and elbow and knee pads posing in front of a mural.
From left to right: Tessa Kresch, Maggie Heil, Shelby Ginsburg, and Meleah Acuff as Brooklyn Scallywags in For the Love Of (or, the roller derby play).

“This show is about building community, finding connection, and fighting for what makes your heart come alive,” said Alexis Black, Director and MSU Assistant Professor of Movement and Acting. “In a post-pandemic world, we are all craving community, and this play celebrates just that.” 

The production also features a unique collaboration with MSU’s College of Music. Sound Designer and MFA Design Candidate Thalia Pearce worked with David Biedenbender’s Composition students to compose original theme songs for each character in the roller derby team.  

“This show is about building community, finding connection, and fighting for what makes your heart come alive.”

Alexis Black, Director and Assistant Professor of Movement and Acting

“It has been an exciting opportunity to work with composers to develop brand new material for this piece,” Pearce said. “My hope is that each of the audio themes developed through this collaboration reflects the uniqueness and individuality of the characters but also weaves into the overall sound of the ’pack’ that is beautifully diverse yet finds a way to fall into sync as a team.”  

Medium shot of four young women in black helmets, purple shirts, and elbow and knee pads huddling in front of a mural.
From left to right: Tessa Kresch, Shelby Ginsburg, Meleah Acuff, and Maggie Heil as Brooklyn Scallywags in For the Love Of (or, the roller derby play).

Tickets are $22.50 for general admission; $17.50 for MSU faculty, staff, and seniors; and $12.50 for students. Tickets are available online at whartoncenter.com, at the Wharton Center box office, or by calling 1-800-WHARTON.  

Performance Dates and Times  

  • Friday, Nov. 11, at 8 p.m.  
  • Sunday, Nov. 13 at 2 p.m. 
  • Sunday, Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m.  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 7:30 p.m.   
  • Wednesday, Nov. 15, at 7:30 p.m.  
  • Thursday, Nov. 16, at 7:30 p.m.   
  • Friday, Nov. 17, at 8 p.m.  
  • Sunday, Nov. 20, at 2 p.m.  

For more information on the show and other MSU Department of Theatre productions, visit: https://theatre.msu.edu/2022-2023-season/.   

Categories: Event / News / Performance / Production