Theater Scene Flourishes at Clark University This Semester – The Scarlet
Clark University’s theater groups have delivered a vibrant fall season, offering a diverse range of productions from interactive experiences to classic revivals. Both the Clark University Players Society (CUPS) and Clark university Musical Theatre (CMT) have captivated audiences with recent performances.
CMT kicked off the theatrical excitement with a spirited shadow cast performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, a welcome return made possible with support from the Clark University Film Screening Society. The interactive show, known for its audience participation, saw excited engagement, including traditional call-outs and playful interactions with water guns and bubbles.
CMT followed this with The Miscast Cabaret on November 7th, 8th, and 9th in Atwood Hall. Directed by sophomores Thalia Shanahan and Lily Hurlstone-Summers, the cabaret provided a platform for Clark students to perform songs from musicals, often taking on roles traditionally outside their vocal range or gender. The show featured a selection of songs, including one previously cut from a musical, and showcased the impressive vocal talents within the Clark community. Follow CMT on instagram for updates on future productions.
CUPS also made a splash with a Halloween-themed haunted house, transforming attendees into prospective circus recruits.The immersive experience led audiences through a series of scenes, including encounters with a fortune teller, a dying acrobat, a gorilla named Bubbles, carnival games, a ringmaster, and even demon clowns.
Looking ahead, the Clark University Theatre Arts Program will present Tartuffe: The Grifter, a contemporary adaptation by Stella Chinchilla ’27 of Molière‘s classic play. Originally banned in 17th-century France for its critique of religious institutions, this retelling focuses on modern American politics. Performances will run from November 13th to November 23rd in the Michelson Theater of the Little Center. Tickets are available through the link in the Clark University Theatre Arts program’s Instagram bio.
CUPS will stage Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest from December 5th to December 7th in the Experimental Theater of the Little center.The production, directed by aster Mehigan ’26, features Greyson Costigan ’27 as Jack Worthing, a character leading a double life as both a respected community member and a mischievous alter ego named Earnest. Thalia Shanahan ’28 will portray Cecily Cardew. CUPS adds a unique flair to the classic by setting the play in the 1970s. Tickets will be available soon via the CUPS link Tree.
