The Waa-Mu Show takes a new approach to an old tradition

EVANSTON, IL --- Northwestern University presents “The 93rd Annual Waa-Mu Show: Taken Away, A Musical Trilogy” April 26 through May 5 in Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson Street, Evanston. 

Rather than a single, longer-format musical, student writers and the cast have collaboratively shaped a trilogy of short-form musicals around a common theme — loss and the poignant exploration of something being taken away. 

Waa-Mu's music supervisor and faculty mentor Ryan T. Nelson says the new approach is more beneficial for students.  

“The move away from a single large musical allows for students to participate of on- and off-stage in a greater scope and we’re excited about being able to make this shift while continuing the Waa-Mu tradition,” Nelson said.    The three short-form musicals are:  

• “The Art of the Heist” — a supernatural tale of an artist who must steal back the last portrait of her late lover 
• “Stolen Thunder” — a reimagined Greek myth that portrays the epic struggle for power between Zeus and Athena 
• “A Bird’s Song” — audiences are transported to a magical forest town where melodies have transformational consequences 

 “Taken Away, A Musical Trilogy” is directed by theater assistant professor of instruction Thomas Rapley.  

“The increased faculty involvement has been vital in understanding the identities of these shows much earlier on in the process, and the three-story structure instead of one has allowed me to dig deeper into the themes of our show” said student creative team member Sadie Fridley. “Everyone in the room writing is really committed to making this show as amazing and exciting as it can be, which makes everything feel new and fun.” 

“The 93rd Annual Waa-Mu Show: Taken Away, A Musical Trilogy” runs April 26 through May 5, 2024. Tickets can be purchased online.