Ambition turns deadly in Mercyhurst Theatre’s hilariously twisted ‘Ruthless!’
The Mercyhurst Theatre Program proudly presents “Ruthless!,” a wickedly funny and delightfully dark musical comedy that takes show business ambition to the extreme. Packed with razor-sharp wit, outrageous twists, and unforgettable characters, this Off-Broadway hit promises an evening of laughter, surprises, and toe-tapping tunes.
At the center of the madness is 8-year-old Tina Denmark, a seemingly sweet and exceptionally talented child who will stop at nothing to land the lead role of Pippi Longstocking in her school musical. As Tina's insatiable drive for stardom unfolds, the question arises: how far is too far? And where does her cutthroat ambition come from?
Winner of the 1993 Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical, “Ruthless!” features a razor-sharp book by Joel Paley and a catchy score by Marvin Laird. Packed with sly nods to “Gypsy,” “All About Eve,” and “The Bad Seed,” this fast-paced, laugh-out-loud satire is filled with shocking twists, memorable characters, and moments that will leave you questioning just where talent and ambition meet madness.
Director Dr. Brett D. Johnson has assembled a stellar creative team, including scenic designer Tucker Topel, lighting designer Madeleine Steineck, costume designer Kim Brown, choreographer Jennie Caruso, stage manager Kate Bentley, and assistant stage managers Ashlyn Houghton and Zack Yeager.
The production showcases six talented Mercyhurst students: Ali Forsythe as Sylvia St. Croix, Abby Craig as Judy Denmark, Haven Bills as Tina Denmark, Bella Mitlo as Miss Thorn, Maya Post as Louise Lerman/Eve, and Gray MacKinlay as Lita Encore.
Performances will take place on Thursday and Friday, March 20-21, at 7:30 p.m., and on Saturday, March 22, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. in Taylor Little Theatre on the Mercyhurst campus.
Single tickets are $15 for adults; $10 for senior citizens and non-Mercyhurst students, and $5 for youth and Mercyhurst students with I.D. Each order is subject to a $1.50 per ticket processing fee, regardless of purchase or payment method.
All performances are general admission, with doors opening 30 minutes prior to curtain.
Patrons can reserve their tickets online at miac.universitytickets.com, by phone at 814-824-3000 (Tues.-Thurs., noon to 5 p.m.) or the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center box office. Tickets will also be on sale at Taylor Little Theatre beginning 90 minutes before curtain.
For more information, visit miac.mercyhurst.edu.
Warning: this production contains strong language and adult situations.