MSU planning Tent Theatre’s 65th season, opening of performing arts complex

Opening night for this summer’s first Tent Theatre production is less than a month away, but planning is in full swing at Missouri State University for next year’s historic 65th season.

MSU made the decision to offer just two productions in 2026 – rather than the typical three, including two musicals and a play – because campus projects in the vicinity have limited the support space available for the summer tradition.

The projects include construction of the Judith Enyeart Reynolds Performing Arts Complex and a targeted renovation inside Craig Hall, which will include an updated lobby and restrooms that will be used by Tent Theatre patrons.

The dedication for both projects is scheduled for Sept. 17.

Shawn Wahl, dean of the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, said the scope and timing of the current season was adjusted because much of the “behind the scenes” work, from set designs to costuming, takes place in Craig Hall.

“We always want to do three shows. It’s important to reassure the arts community because they see it's two instead of three,” Wahl said. “We want to let everyone know that this is temporary. We’re gearing up for two musicals and a play in season 65, which will be a huge celebration.”

Tent Theatre productions take place in the John Goodman Amphitheatre. In late April and early May, Goodman was in Springfield to celebrate the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration. He toured the MSU construction and renovation projects and received an update on planning for the 65th season.

“He really wanted to walk the space,” Wahl said.

Goodman chaired the Onward, Upward campaign, which ended in 2022 after raising $274 million for the scholarships, programs and facilities, including the amphitheater.

“He’s really been a driving force behind so many of the projects across the university that we have been able to accomplish. It was really special to him,” Wahl said. “One of the other things that came up in conversation was the teachers, the people who really made an impact on John and so many other people within our alumni community.”

MSU announced spaces inside the performing arts complex will be named for educators Robert H. Bradley and Louis H. Schaeffer.

“It was very impactful and emotional to John to see his teachers and mentors honored in that way,” Wahl said.

The 24,000-square-foot performing arts complex will include a black box theater, lobby and reception area, and performance teaching studios. Funding includes $17.5 million from the state, $5.5 million from MSU and an eight-figure gift from Tim Reynolds and the C.W. Titus Foundation.

Wahl said excitement is building this summer for the opening of the new and renovated arts spaces and the upcoming season of Tent Theatre.

This year’s 64th season includes “Around the World in 80 Days” on June 18-20 and June 22-26 and “Beehive: The 60’s Musical” on July 8-11 and July 13-18.

Wahl said the addition of the amphitheater, the recent renovation of Ellis Hall and the work inside Craig Hall, along with the new performing arts complex, will result in facilities that will match the talent of the students and faculty. Most work has been on the southeast edge of campus, along Grand Street and National Avenue.

“The corner of Grand and National is just completely transformed, and I see it as a benefit to current students, faculty and the community,” Wahl said. “There is a high impact experience in having state-of-the-art facilities.”

The performing arts complex has been referred to as a “front porch” for the campus.

“It’s Judy’s front porch for people who are visiting campus, our alumni from all majors across the university,” Wahl said. “It’s a special place and we anticipate having alumni events, guest speakers, external performing arts artists, a true arts experience on campus and also an open door for people in the community.”