Get ready for theatrical and social conventions to be turned on their heads by the Cornell Department of Theatre and Dance’s presentation of “Head Over Heels” April 24–27 in Kimmel Theatre.
The play, based on “The Countess of Pembroke’s Arcadia” by Sir Phillip Sidney and adapted by James Magruder, is about the flawed kingdom of Arcadia. The beat, a metaphorical life force that represents the kingdom’s vitality, is threatened by a prophecy leading to the destruction of Arcadia and the earth standing still. The royal family attempts to stop and outrun the prophecy, with each family member taking a journey to find themselves.
“The original expression head over heels dates back to the 1300s and means ‘completely, thoroughly’ or turned upside down in love,” said Devon Stone, who is directing the show. “The musical does just this, as it turns multiple theatrical and social conventions around gender, sexuality, power, status, and love on their heads. The combining of dissonant styles aptly creates unexpected moments in which the audience sees a familiar model used in an upside-down way.”
Stone, who has appeared in various productions including the national tour of “Spring Awakening,” and last worked with our students playing Zach in “A Chorus Line,” studied “Head Over Heels” for his master’s thesis. This musical is set to an up-tempo catalog of songs from The Go-Go’s.
“Every song feels so beautifully done,” said sophomore Jack Tressel ’27. “The characters get to be goofy and serious at different moments, and the rehearsal process has just been downright amazing.”
“Head Over Heels” combines a 16th-century setting and Shakespearan constructs with late 20th-century music and an inclusive set of characters, providing both a timeless and relatable experience for contemporary audiences.
“If one of the goals of theater is to lift the burden of life off of people for a few hours, what better show to do than one with the music of the Gogos, romantic and familial love stories, and goofiness?” said senior Luci Bransel ’25. “If I had to choose one word to describe our rehearsal process thus far, it would be joyful. Lots of laughter, lots of support—not to mention lots of incredible vocal performances. Everyone on the cast is very excited to tell this story, myself included!”
Tickets can be purchased online and are $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, and free to Cornell students, faculty, and staff with their Cornell IDs. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m. on April 24–26 and at 2 p.m. on April 27 in Armstrong-Youngker Hall.
This all-student production involves a cast of 16 with 36 students in crew and shop positions, including one student costume designer. The director says this play lets students learn classical conventions while giving them permission to break those traditional constructs.
“This musical does a beautiful job at blending genres and representing so many identities and love with such ease. I think anyone who comes will find multiple things to enjoy–it’s a show that can’t help but make you smile.”