Alma College Theatre opens its 2019-20 season with "The Music Man"

"The Music Man" brings together campus and community theatre. First produced on Broadway in 1957, "The Music Man" follows the story of con man Harold Hill as he tries to sell marching band instruments and uniforms to the small-town residents of River City, Iowa. He promises to teach the group to play despite knowing nothing about music. Hill wishes to leave town as soon as he receives the money; however, his plan is called into question as he develops feelings for the town librarian, Marian Paroo.

The theatre reached out to the community to fill several spots. There are three Alma elementary students, eight local middle and high school students, and four additional adults. "Because 'The Music Man' is a classic audience favorite that requires a large cast, it gave us a chance to invite community members to be part of the company," says Scott Mackenzie, director and department chair of Theatre and Dance. "I am hoping that we can establish a good town/gown tradition for the future as we plan to produce large musicals every other year.