The Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance at Wayne State University is starting the winter 2025 semester strong with the opening of “Tartuffe.”

Molière’s timeless comedy, translated into English verse by Richard Wilbur and directed by Janice L Blixt, will be performed Jan. 31 through Feb. 9 on the STAGE at the Hilberry Gateway. This production also marks the much-anticipated return of the M.F.A. in Acting program, following a year-long hiatus. The new Hilberry Graduate Acting Company features six talented actors from across the country.

Blixt, an alumna of WSU's historic MFA acting program and Producing Artistic Director of the Michigan Shakespeare Festival, returns to direct “Tartuffe” after her successful direction of “Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express,” adapted by Ken Ludwig, in February 2024 at the Hilberry Gateway.

“My years as an actor at the Hilberry started my life-long affection and passion for classical theatre — the language, epic nature of drama, humanity of the characters, and the outrageous comedy,” said Blixt. “I’m delighted to be back in Midtown Detroit, and bringing everything I’ve learned over my career to share with these young artists in this brand-new space. Richard Wilbur’s translation of Moliere’s ‘Tartuffe’ is a joyous combination of all of my favorite aspects of classical theatre — and I just can’t wait for audiences to experience this sparkling production.”

“Tartuffe” tells the story of Orgon, a wealthy man who welcomes the seemingly pious but ultimately deceitful Tartuffe into his home, only to see his family fall prey to Tartuffe’s duplicity. With her extensive experience and creative vision, Blixt orchestrates a fresh collaboration between the student performers and designers, capturing the sharp wit and social commentary that make this classic comedy a resonant piece for modern audiences.

The reestablishment of the Hilberry Graduate Acting Company, with its emphasis on rigorous professional training and expansive performance opportunities, reaffirms Wayne State’s commitment to cultivating artists prepared to excel in the evolving landscape of theatre and the arts.

Join Wayne State University as it proudly launches 2025 with this reimagined classic, brought to life on the Hilberry Gateway stage. Wilbur’s adaptation of “Tartuffe” promises an evening of energy, humor, and exploration of the human condition, honoring the legacy of one of the world’s greatest playwrights.

For dates, times, and ticket purchases for “Tartuffe” and other Hilberry Gateway performances, visit theatreanddance.wayne.edu/onstage or call the box office at (313) 577-2972. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups.

About the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts

The College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts is home to today’s aspiring artists, performers, technicians, scholars, dancers, debaters, entrepreneurs, and communication professionals who all represent the college’s legacy of excellence in our respective fields.

The college serves students majoring in 17 undergraduate programs, 10 graduate programs and three graduate certificates through its departments: the James Pearson Duffy Department of Art, Art History and Design, the Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance, and the departments of communication and music.

From debate to dance, jazz to journalism, and fashion design to center stage, our students create captivating performances, inspire artistic and academic excellence, and conduct innovative research on behalf of our Detroit community.