Oakland University theatre production chronicles U.S. presidential assassins

ROCHESTER, Mich. - March 24, 2016 - PRLog -- At 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, the theatre program at Oakland University will open its latest production, which is "Assassins," a darkly comedic musical with music and lyrics by the great Stephen Sondheim.

Winner of five 2004 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, "Assassins" investigates the lives, loves and lunacy of nine notorious American presidential assassins, from John Wilkes Booth to John Hinckley, Jr. The story transcends time and space, taking audiences on a nightmarish carnival ride where the would-be killers descend from different historical periods to interact and inspire each other to harrowing acts in pursuit of celebrity status - all in the name of the "American Dream." The satirical, thought-provoking "Assassins" is sure to stimulate plenty of post-show conversation.

It's a classic Sondheim musical with a politically charged theme. Associate Professor Anthony Guest, who is directing the show, said, "It's some of my favorite music. It's phenomenal."

There will be 10 performances between March 31 and April 9, 2016 in Varner Studio Theatre, which is located on the Oakland University campus. Maps of the campus are available at oakland.edu/map or by searching for "Varner Hall" on a smartphone. Ample free parking will be available.

Tickets are $20 general, $12 for students at all shows, and for everyone at the Friday, April 8, 10 a.m. matinee. The Sunday, April 3 at 2 p.m., and Friday, April 8 at 8 p.m. performances will be shadow-signed for the Deaf by Synergy on Stage.

Tickets may be purchased online without service fees at startickets.com (http://www.startickets.com/tours/item/assassins-2) or by phone at (800) 585-3737. They can also be purchased at the Varner Box Office on OU's campus. Tickets ordered in advance can be picked up at the box office one hour before the performance begins. Complete ticket information is available at oakland.edu/mtd/tickets.

For more information on Music, Theatre and Dance programs and performances, call (248) 370-2030 or visit oakland.edu/mtd.

Full schedule:

Thursday, March 31, 2016 at 8 p.m.

Friday, April 1, 2016 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 2, 2016 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 2 p.m.

Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at 8 p.m.

Thursday, April 7, 2016 at 8 p.m.

Friday, April 8, 2016 at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 2 p.m.