SFA Theatre to present children's musical and 'Steel Magnolias'

Sugar Land sophomore Daniel Miller cuts out the captain's wheel to be used in the SFA School of Theatre's "How I Became a Pirate," a family musical that will be presented in rotation with "Steel Magnolias" during the 2012 summer theatre season. Please go to www.finearts.sfasu.edu for a complete schedule of performances.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Tickets are now on sale for two popular shows that comprise the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Theatre's summer season, the children's musical "How I Became a Pirate" and the Southern classic "Steel Magnolias," both of which will be performed in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

The season will open at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 22, with "How I Became a Pirate," Janet Vogt and Mark Friedman's one-hour musical adaptation of the best-selling book written by Melinda Long and illustrated by David Shannon.

"Pirates of all ages will enjoy the adventures of young Jeremy Jacobs, who sails away with Captain Braid Beard and his comical crew but eventually discovers his heart is back at home." said Angela Bacarisse, SFA associate professor of theatre and the show's director.

To accommodate children, families and groups, "How I Became a Pirate" will be presented at three different times of day. Early evening performances at 6:30 p.m. are scheduled for Friday, June 22; Saturday, June 23; Saturday, June 30; and Saturday, July 14.

Matinees at 2 p.m. will be presented on Sunday, July 1, and Tuesday, July 3. Morning performances at 10 a.m. will be offered on Thursday, July 12, and Friday, July 13.

"Perfect for a date night or adult group outing, we're also presenting Robert Harling's hilarious and heartfelt comedy, 'Steel Magnolias,'" said Scott Shattuck, director of the SFA School of Theatre. "Many East Texans are familiar with the characters and storyline because of the blockbuster film starring Sally Field and Julia Roberts, but here's a chance to step inside Truvy's Beauty Shop and meet the women of Chinquapin Parish close up!"

"Steel Magnolias" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 28; Friday, June 29; Friday, July 6; Saturday, July 7; and Tuesday, July 10. Matinees at 2 p.m. will be offered on Thursday, July 5, and Sunday, July 8.

Tickets for "How I Became a Pirate" are $6 for individuals or $5 each for groups of 20 or more. Tickets for "Steel Magnolias" are $12 for adults and $6 for seniors and students.

For tickets or more information, go to www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.