It's about one moment. It's about hitting the wall, having to make a choice or take a stand. These are the stories and characters of Songs for a New World by Tony Award winner Jason Robert Brown, presented by the Department of Theatre, opening Friday, April 14, and running through Sunday, April 23, at the University Theatre.

Songs for a New World is the first musical from Tony Award winner Jason Robert Brown (Parade, Bridges of Madison County) and is also the last offering from the Department of Theatre closing out the 2022-2023 season. Directed by professor Morgan Hicks, with musical direction by Professor Betsy Jilka—this moving collection of powerful songs examines life, love and the choices that we make.

Featuring a diverse cast of undergraduate performers, many of whom are in their final semester of study, Songs for a New World represents both a final chapter in their U of A journey and a new chapter into the new worlds into which they embark. 

Embodying characters who range from a young man with hoop dreams for the NBA to a forlorn Mrs. Claus lamenting as Christmas approaches, the ensemble embraces an equally eclectic score that blends elements of pop, gospel and jazz. The musical features tight harmonies and Brown's inventive and poignant lyrics.

Michael Adams writes in review for The Hollywood Reporter, "These are songs to pierce the heart and raise the rafters."

Songs for a New World by Jason Robert Brown, directed by Morgan Hicks, with vocal coaching by Betsy Jilka and choreography by Michelle LeBlanc runs April 14-23 at the University Theatre.  

The Faulkner Performing Arts Center central box office is open from 1-5 p.m. Monday - Friday and one hour before curtain at the performance location.

Tickets and reservations can be made by calling 479-575-5387 or emailing tickets@uark.edu. If reserving by email, be sure to include requester's first and last name, date of performance and number of tickets.