The University of Illinois Springfield Theatre Program will present six performances of “Hurricane Diane” by Madeleine George.

The show will run for two weekends: Friday, Nov. 1, through Sunday, Nov. 3, and Thursday, Nov. 7, through Saturday, Nov. 9, in the Studio Theatre on the lower level of the Public Affairs Center at UIS. All performances will begin at 7:30 p.m., except for the Sunday show on Nov. 3, which will start at 2 p.m. There will be a post-show discussion on Nov. 7.

The story follows Diane, a charismatic permaculture gardener who is actually the Greek god Dionysus in disguise. With her supernatural powers, she's come back to the modern world to rally followers and restore the earth’s natural balance. She starts her mission by targeting four women in suburban New Jersey. Pulitzer Prize finalist Madeleine George uses this setup to craft a humorous and sharp critique of society’s tendency to ignore climate change, blending comedy with themes of environmentalism and wild, transformative energy.

“Hurricane Diane” is directed by Professor Missy Thibodeaux-Thompson with scenic design and technical direction by Associate Professor of Theatre Dathan Powell.

Cast members include UIS Theatre majors Dakota Kitson and Aria Woods, UIS History majors Joy Brown and Hannah Curran and Department of Art, Music and Theatre staff member Amanda Lazzara. The production team is made up of UIS students, faculty, staff and community members, including three guest artists: Lighting Designer Craig Steenerson, Costume Designer Cheyenne Flores and Choreographer Therese Wyatt.

Ticket prices are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, $12 for UIS faculty and staff, $10 for UIS students and $8 for young adults/children under 17. Please note that service charges are not included in the prices above.

Tickets can be purchased on the UIS Performing Arts Center website or between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at the Ticket Office, located on the first level of the UIS Public Affairs Center near the main entrance. There is a $2.50 service fee if tickets are purchased online or over the phone. Patrons may call the UIS Ticket Office at 217-206-6160.