The Drake University Department of Theatre Arts will present Nice Work If You Can Get It, a new musical featuring the classic songs of George and Ira Gershwin, from Nov. 15–18. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 15–17, and 2 p.m. on Nov. 18 in the Performing Arts Hall of the Harmon Fine Arts Center on Drake’s campus.
Set in the 1920s, the story follows charming and wealthy playboy, Jimmy Winter, who meets the clever bootlegger, Billie Bendix. Dancing, trouble, and lots of laughs are all part of this upbeat and funny musical.
Erin Horst, assistant professor of theatre at Drake, is the director and choreographer of the musical. She recommends the show for the beautiful music and its ability to bring a smile to the audience’s day.
“There’s no underlying intense meaning,” says Horst. “The show is lighthearted and fun with jazzy music and big dance numbers.”
Andrew Hatfield, a fine arts senior majoring in musical theatre, plays Jimmy Winter. He worked hard to perfect difficult, technical dance numbers.
“My favorite part is the ability to interact with everyone in the show,” says Hatfield. “It’s so much fun to play off of everyone’s energy as they come and go, and really build a tight knit ensemble.”
Haley Wilson, also a fine arts senior majoring in musical theatre, is the dance captain for the production. She works with the ensemble to make sure the dance numbers are as clean as they can be.
“I act as a cheerleader for everyone, helping them be the best that they can be,” says Wilson. “It’s really rewarding to see people feel good about what they are doing. I can’t describe it, it’s just awesome.”
Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased online, through the Fine Arts Box Office located at 2525 Carpenter Ave., or by calling 515-271-3841.