UCO's "Steel Pier" to Feature Ballroom Dancing Along with Toe-tapping Rhythms

March 17, 2008

The University of Central Oklahoma's School of Music will present the musical production "Steel Pier," at 7:30 p.m., April 3-5 and at 2 p.m., April 6 at Mitchell Hall Theater on UCO's campus.

Premiered in New York City in 1997, "Steel Pier" was created by John Kander and Fred Ebb, who also wrote the music and lyrics to the legendary musicals "Chicago" and "Cabaret."

Set in the honky tonk world of marathon dancing during the Great Depression, "Steel Pier" brings together an assortment of desperate characters eager to dance their way into fame and prizes. They gather on the famous Steel Pier in Atlantic City, which rocks and sways with the dancing rhythms of the era as the night wears away. Disillusionment, life and death hang in the balance.

"Dancing has made a big comeback, thanks to shows like 'Dancing with the Stars,' and the 'Steel Pier' audience can expect to see glorious ballroom dancing throughout almost the entire show," said Dr. Greg White, UCO music theater director.

"The piece has a simple complexity, with phenomenal music and infectious singing. It's a charming and very insightful show, funny yet poignant. I love life affirming pieces and 'Steel Pier' leaves the audience with a great sense of hope for the human condition."

Tickets to the show are $12 for adults, $8 for senior citizens, $4 for UCO students and $7 for non-UCO students and children. Reservations are strongly recommended.

For more information and reservations call the Mitchell Hall Box Office at (405) 974-3375. For a complete schedule of CAMD performances, www.camd.ucok.edu.

Page updated 3/20/08