Post published:April 12, 2023

MSU Theatre Presents Steve Martin and Edie Brickell Musical ‘Bright Star’

Michigan State University’s Department of Theatre presents Bright Star April 19-23 in the Pasant Theatre at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Inspired by a true story and featuring the Tony®-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, Broadway’s Bright Star tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s.

A row of three pictures: on the left, a woman in a red and pink and blue floral dress with black hair and blue eyes; in the middle a woman with a sun hat, blue eyes, and a green and white floral dress; on the right, a man with short brown hair and a white shirt. — From left to right: Lane Straub, who plays Margo; Madison LeMieux, who plays Alice; and Sebastian Barnett, who plays Jimmy Ray, in the Department of Theatre’s production of *Bright Star*.

When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past — and what she finds has the power to transform both their lives. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful.

“I was immediately drawn to the show’s themes of resilience and hope, conveyed through the story’s stunning score,” said Director Brad Willcuts, Associate Professor of Musical Theatre and Choreography. “Bright Star is a story that reminds us of the power of perseverance and the light that can emerge from even the darkest of times. The production will resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.”

“Bright Star is a story that reminds us of the power of perseverance and the light that can emerge from even the darkest of times.”
Brad Willcuts, Director and Associate Professor of Musical Theatre and Choreography

Tickets for Bright Star are $23.50 for general admission, $21.50 for MSU faculty/staff and seniors, and free for students with an MSU ID. Tickets are available online at whartoncenter.com, at the Wharton Center box office, or by calling 1-800-WHARTON.