A host of faculty, guest artists and students have had the pleasure of directing more than 180 productions since the Metro State Theatre Program was established in the late 1960s.

Based on the archive of past productions on the department’s website, generations of students, alumni, family and friends have had front-row seats to a diverse repertoire of culturally relevant work from different time periods, in addition to musicals, drama and social satire.

A review of the list shows:

• From 1988-2010, 42 productions were directed by Chair and Professor of Theatre Marilyn “Cookie” Hetzel.
• Since 2004, eight productions were directed by Assistant Professor of Theatre Scott Lubinski.
• Since 1989, Hetzel has developed and directed four major student touring companies.
• From 1990-2011, eight shows have been produced by guest artists and 11 by students.
• From 1993-2010, six productions have been written by or were based on Shakespeare.

The list also shows some favorite productions that have taken center stage twice on the department’s schedule.

• “6 Impossible Things Before Breakfast” in 1988 and 2008
• “Twelfth Night” in 1994 and 2010
• “Under the Gaslight” in 1990 and 2003
• “That Shadowbox” in 1987 and 2003
• “Man of La Mancha” in 1981 and 1998
• “Hot L Baltimore” 1985 and 2008
• “Spoon River Anthology” in 1974 and 1985

Chair and Professor of Theatre Marilyn “Cookie” Hetzel

Recent key collaborations:

• In November 2009, the department produced, under the direction of Hetzel, the world premiere of “The Messenger.” The script and music for this musical were written by two Metro State students (now alumni) Jake Williamson and Jose Zuniga. The production was the climax of a two-year collaboration between the department and the authors.

• For the last three years, in a partnership with Kaiser Permanente, the department has offered its students an internship opportunity to perform in a professional educational theatre touring company. This company performs mostly at local middle schools to educate young people about health issues.

This year, audiences can look forward to seeing “Tartuffe,” “Working,” “Rhinoceros” and “Sweeney Todd.” To learn more about upcoming shows and to see audition dates, visit the department’s website.

Editor’s Note: This column spotlights snippets of statistics that demonstrate how the College is growing and succeeding in a variety of ways. It is also a place to better explain the meaning behind numbers used at the College and put a fun spin on impressive accomplishments.