MESA, Ariz.-- Nov. 5, 2024 - The Mesa Community College Musical Theatre program presents “Be More Chill,” Nov. 6-10 in the Performing Arts Center and Theatre program presents the Tony Awards-winning drama, “Appropriate,” Nov. 22-Dec. 7 in the MCC Theatre. Both venues are on the Southern and Dobson campus, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85202. 

“Be More Chill” features original music and lyrics by Joe Iconis, and a book by Joe Tracz, based on the novel of the same name by Ned Vizzini. Jeremy Heere, a high school junior and social outcast, discovers The Squip, a tiny supercomputer that promises to bring him everything he desires most, but at what cost. Tickets are $12 -$18.

By Brandon Jacob Jenkins, “Appropriate” tackles issues of racism, both overt and systemic, in hard hitting, unapologetic ways. Each performance is followed by an audience talk-back, allowing audience members to unpack their feelings regarding the play and to comment on their experiences both inside and outside the theatre. Tickets are $10 - $13.

For details on upcoming performances and to purchase tickets, visit mesacc.edu/arts/events.

These current productions are certain to add to the department’s many local and national awards. Most recently, students and faculty were recognized at the ariZoni Theatre Awards of Excellence held this fall at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Competing against universities and professional theatre companies, MCC netted 23 nominations for “Anything Goes," "Everything in the Garden,” “The Play That Goes Wrong,” “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” and "She Kills Monsters.” From these nominations, students and faculty took top honors for the following:

“The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” Best Overall Musical Production

Rachel Aguirre, Best Scenic Design, “The Play That Goes Wrong”

Ricky Araiza, Best Director, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”

David Aubin, Best Actor in a Major Role, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”

Brenna Halvorsen and Alexis Trujilo, Best Artistic Specialization, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”

Delores Mendoza, Best Property Design, “She Kills Monsters”

Julian-Sebastian Peña, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”

Darin Shryock and Leia Wasbotten, Best Music Direction, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”

Catherine Zublin, Best Costume Design, “She Kills Monsters”

“We are proud of the accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff in MCC's performing arts,” said Leanna Hall, Ph.D., dean of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. “These awards not only celebrate their talent and dedication, but also underscore the robust creative community at MCC, which serves to inspire future artists.”

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Media contact: Julie Ruiz, MCC IA, julie.ruiz@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7283

Mesa Community College is nationally recognized for university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, service-learning and innovative approaches to education. Host to more than 24,400 students annually, MCC offers degree and certificate programs at its two campuses and additional locations. On average MCC students provide 23,000 hours of community service annually. For more than 50 years, the college has served as a resource for education, workforce development and lifelong learning. MCC is transforming student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services and a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. MCC is a Hispanic Serving Institution. Nearly 50% of MCC students are the first in their families to attend college. MCC has the largest indigenous student population of all the Maricopa Community Colleges. The American Indian Institute serves students from 22 federally recognized Arizona tribes and out-of-state tribes. Our diverse student body includes hundreds of international students from around the world. Award-winning faculty are dedicated to student success, providing the education and training that empowers MCC students to attain their goals. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional territories of the O'odham, Piipaash and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 colleges in the Maricopa County Community College District. Visit mesacc.edu to learn more.

Mesa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) -- hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.