Theatre Returns to OHIO Eastern Under the Direction of Dennis Fox with “Spoon River Anthology”
Press Release
ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — Theatre returns to Ohio University Eastern this spring under the direction of longtime professor and director Dennis Fox, who is leading a production of “Spoon River Anthology” at the OUE Theatre.
Fox, a familiar figure in the campus theatre community, retired from Ohio University in 2021 after 37 years of service. His return to direct this production marks a renewed chapter for theatre at the regional campus and a homecoming for a director who helped shape the cultural life of Ohio University Eastern for decades.
“I’m excited to return to Ohio University Eastern and work with this talented ensemble,” Fox said. “This production brings together students, faculty, staff and members of our local community to tell these stories. “Spoon River Anthology” is a collection of poetic monologues that reveal the hidden lives and secrets of a small town. It’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate the connections between our campus and the community.”
Written by Edgar Lee Masters and adapted for the stage by Charles Aidman, “Spoon River Anthology” unfolds through a series of poetic monologues spoken by residents of a fictional Midwestern town. From beyond the grave, the characters reveal hidden truths, regrets and long-held secrets, offering an intimate portrait of community life.
Several familiar faces are returning to the OUE Theatre stage for the production, while new performers are also joining the theatre family. Spencer Echemann, a junior Early Childhood Education student, is making his OUE Theatre debut. He is joined by Ohio University alumna Brooke Showalter and eighth-grade student Gracie Fraley of Barnesville, both making their OUE Theatre debuts.
The production reflects the collaborative spirit that has long defined theatre at Ohio University Eastern, blending students, alumni and community members in a shared creative experience.
“The return of Dennis Fox feels like a homecoming for our campus and community,” said Richard W. Greenlee, interim dean of campus and community relations. “His work has touched generations of students and audience members. Welcoming him back to direct this production is both meaningful and celebratory for Ohio University Eastern.”
Performance dates and times are:
- Friday, March 6, at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, March 7, at 7 p.m.
- Sunday, March 8, at 2 p.m.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ohio.edu/eastern/theatre.
The campus and local community are invited to experience the return of theatre at Ohio University Eastern and the enduring stories of “Spoon River Anthology”.
(Ohio University Eastern press release)
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