Theatre company launches season Sept. 26 with ‘Enemies’

The UDM Theatre Company has announced three diverse plays for its 44th season: “The Best of Enemies,” “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” and “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.”

“These events at the theatre allow our patrons, alumni and community to network,” said Greg Grobis, director of marketing and management for the company, in a media release. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with other art-minded patrons while supporting the arts in Detroit.”

Beginning the season on Sept. 26 is Mark St. Germain’s play, “The Best of Enemies.” 

Based on a true story, two strong-willing opponents, Ann Atwater, an outspoken Civil Rights activist, and C.P. Ellis, Exalted Cyclops of the KKK, are challenged by federal mediator Bill Riddick to co-chair a steering committee to facilitate change. 

This will also be the first time the play is performed in Michigan. The play will be shown at the Marygrove Theatre.

Going into the holiday season, the company will perform Frank Capra’s timeless play, “It’s a Wonderful Life” in Grounds Coffeehaus. 

Capturing the timeless magic of the film, Joe Landry’s “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” invigorates the story with vibrant new color and excitement. 

A small cast of actors will play dozens of characters amid a creative and zany “Radio Play,” complete with live sound effects. The play will run Dec. 5-7 at 8 p.m. with an additional showing on Dec. 7 at 2 p.m.

“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” is a musical adaptation of the popular children’s book, which follows feisty Alexander and a series of unfortunate events that occur throughout his day. 

Waking up with gum in his hair, unwanted cavities and no dessert with lunch are just a few of the obstacles he encounters. 

Alexander allows audiences of all ages to identify with him and ultimately reveals that bad days happen to everyone — even in Australia. This play will also be shown in Grounds March 20-22 as well as March 27-29. 

Individual tickets are available for purchase online at www.UDMarts.com. UDM and Marygrove students pay $5; faculty and staff $17. General tickets are $20. Special group pricing is available. Please contact Lisa Rybak, 313-993-3270, for more information.