Department of Theatre and Dance, John M. Long School of Music to collaborate for ‘The Music Man’

Published 2:37 pm Monday, March 31, 2025

Troy University’s Department of Theatre and Dance and the John M. Long School of Music Symphony Band will join to perform Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” from April 3-6 at 7 p.m. in the Janice Hawkins Cultural Arts Park Amphitheatre.

“The Music Man,” an award-winning and critically acclaimed Broadway classic, tells the story of a fast-talking traveling salesman named Harold Hill who arrives in the small town of River City, Iowa with plans to con the townspeople. However, his plans are foiled when he falls in love with Marian, the town’s librarian who sees through his deception. Full of quirky characters and charmingly predictable dramatic situations, “The Music Man” features a nostalgic score with musical favorites like “Seventy-Six Trombones” and “Til There Was You.”

“The production of ‘The Music Man’ is a longstanding favorite, and we’re thrilled to be presenting it as a celebration of the arts, community, and Troy University’s legacy of excellence in music education,” said Tori Lee Averett, Associate Dean for the College of Communications and Fine Arts. “With a team of over 100 in the cast, crew and orchestra, we’re excited to bring this entertaining show to the amphitheater for audiences of all ages!”

This special concert production features the Troy University Symphony Band from the John M. Long School of Music, showcasing the legacy of excellence of performing arts at Troy University.

“Collaborating with the School of Music has been an exciting and authentic partnership, as usual, and Dr. Mark Walker has been an essential part of the show’s success,” Averett said. “For the first time, the Troy University Symphony Band will be featured as the orchestra – a musical centerpiece for this concert version of the golden age musical classic.”

“It is an incredible honor for the Troy University Symphony Band to collaborate with the Department of Theatre and Dance for this production,” said Dr. Mark Walker, Director of Bands. “Bringing Meredith Willson’s iconic score to life alongside such talented performers is a valuable experience for our musicians. This partnership showcases the dedication, artistry and teamwork that make Troy University’s performing arts truly exceptional.”

Tickets are $10 for reserved seating and $5 when purchased with a TROY student ID. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Trojan Center Box Office by Barnes & Noble Bookstore. TROY student tickets must be purchased in person to receive the discount.

In the event of rain, performances will be held in the Claudia Crosby Theater.