Opening night is around the corner for Wayne State University’s Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance. The 2024-25 season opens Oct. 4-12 in the STUDIO at the Hilberry Gateway with the production of “I Hate Hamlet” by Paul Rudnick, guest-directed by Frannie Shepherd-Bates.

“We are thrilled to bring this witty and thought-provoking play to life. 'I Hate Hamlet' is a delightful blend of humor and heart, offering both a challenge and a joy for our cast and creative team,” said Shepherd-Bates. “Our goal is to create an experience that not only entertains but also resonates with audiences long after they leave the theatre.” 

“I Hate Hamlet” focuses on Andrew Rally, a successful television actor whose life is turned upside down when cast as Hamlet in Shakespeare in the Park in New York City. Throughout the play, Andrew must navigate his insecurities and the stifling expectations of those around him while managing the celebrity ghost of John Barrymore, who has taken up residence in his apartment.

A cast of five WSU College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts undergraduate students, along with several design and tech graduates and undergraduates, create memorable characters and fantastic design elements, while learning from talented mentors and experts in their craft as they bring Rudnick’s clever script to life. The intimate setting of the STUDIO and thrust stage, designed by graduate student Jeffery Jantz, also offers a personal experience for the audience, immersing them in the story’s comedic and dramatic twists.

This season opener begins a dynamic lineup featuring plays, musicals and original dance concerts. See all dates and times and purchase tickets for “I Hate Hamlet” and more shows in the Hilberry Gateway at theatreanddance.wayne.edu/onstage or by calling the Hilberry Gateway 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.