Tony Award-nominated Xanadu Sparkles on Morgan Theatre Stage

Tony Award-nominated Xanadu runs Oct. 5, 10-13 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 6 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. at the Morgan Theatre in the Chase Fine Arts Center on the Utah State University campus.

Struggling artist, Sonny, is trapped in a dull job painting album covers. He falls in love with one of the random women he has to paint and goes on a quest to find her. The mysterious beauty, Kira, happens to be an ageless Greek muse who encourages him to build the first roller disco. When she falls in forbidden love with a mortal, chaos ensues. 

Rachael Hodge, who plays the role of Kira, said Utah State Theatre is really embracing the satirical side of the musical.

“It’s based off the 1980s movie starring Olivia Newton John,” Hodge said. “The movie was not super successful so the musical plays on that quite a bit, but we really take it up a notch and comedy ensues. The actors cast in this production have great comedic timing.”

Hodge said the set and lighting are very bright with every muse being dressed in bright pastel colors. 

“There’s sparkle literally on the faces of our actors,” Hodge said. “And figuratively in the air of the performance.” 

Hodge thinks people who have seen the movie will really enjoy this production of the show and the trip into nostalgia. She had to learn to skate on pink, sparkly roller skates for her role in the show. 

“Before this summer I had never worn roller skates before,” Hodge said. “I fell a lot and have the bruises to prove it, but now I feel way more confident and thankful that I have a new skill.” 

The heaviest they get during the musical is still pretty comedic according to Hodge. She encourages audience members to come out and have a great time. 

Tickets for Xanadu are $18 adults, $15 seniors/youth, $10 USU faculty/staff and free for USU students with ID. For more information or tickets, contact the CCA Box Office in room L101 of the Chase Fine Arts Center on USU’s campus, call 435-797-8022, or go online to cca.usu.edu.