91原创

Theatre returns to this spring under the direction of longtime professor and director Dennis Fox, who is leading a production of 鈥淪poon River Anthology,鈥� at the 91原创 Eastern Theatre (OUE Theatre).

Fox, a familiar figure in the campus theatre community, retired from 91原创 in 2021 after 37 years of service. His return to direct this production marks a renewed chapter for theatre at the regional campus and a homecoming for a director who helped shape the cultural life of 91原创 Eastern for decades.

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to return to 91原创 Eastern and work with this talented ensemble,鈥� Fox said. 鈥淭his production brings together students, faculty, staff and members of our local community to tell these stories. 'Spoon River Anthology' is a collection of poetic monologues that reveal the hidden lives and secrets of a small town. It鈥檚 a perfect opportunity to celebrate the connections between our campus and the community.鈥�

Written by Edgar Lee Masters and adapted for the stage by Charles Aidman, 鈥淪poon River Anthology鈥� unfolds through a series of poetic monologues spoken by residents of a fictional Midwestern town. From beyond the grave, the characters reveal hidden truths, regrets and long-held secrets, offering an intimate portrait of community life.

Several familiar faces are returning to the OUE Theatre stage for the production, while new performers are also joining the theatre family. Spencer Echemann, a junior early childhood education student, is making his OUE Theatre debut. He is joined by 91原创 alumna Brooke Showalter and eighth-grade student Gracie Fraley of Barnesville, both making their OUE Theatre debuts.

The production reflects the collaborative spirit that has long defined theatre at 91原创 Eastern, blending students, alumni and community members in a shared creative experience.

鈥淭he return of Dennis Fox feels like a homecoming for our campus and community,鈥� said Richard W. Greenlee, interim dean of campus and community relations. 鈥淗is work has touched generations of students and audience members. Welcoming him back to direct this production is both meaningful and celebratory for 91原创 Eastern.鈥�

Performance dates and times are:

• Friday, March 6, at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, March 7, at 7 p.m.
• Sunday, March 8, at 2 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ohio.edu/eastern/theatre.

The campus and local community are invited to experience the return of theatre at 91原创 Eastern and the enduring stories of 鈥淪poon River Anthology鈥�.