The Theory of Relativity

The Theory of Relativity, presented by Lincoln-Way East High School was selected for performance at the Illinois High School Theatre Festival. On January 13, 2023 students from Lincoln-Way East will present the 75-minute musical from Drama Desk Award nominees Neil Bartram and Brian Hill (The Story of My Life) to high school theatre students from across the state at the the annual Illinois High School Theatre Festival at The University of Illinois.  The Theory of Relativity is a joyous and moving look about our surprisingly interconnected lives.  Whether you're allergic to cats, in love for the first or tenth time, a child of divorce, a germaphobe or simply a unique individual, audience members and actors alike are sure to find themselves in this fresh new musical.

Through a seemingly unrelated collection of songs, scenes and monologues, The Theory of Relativity introduces a compelling array of characters experiencing the joys and heartbreaks, the liaisons and losses, the inevitability and the wonder of human connection. The cast and crew of 30 Lincoln-Way East High School students is led by directors Patrick Spreadbury and Ann McMann-Kotze with designer Tyler Dawson and choreographer Meg Kosteck. 

“It is an incredible honor to be chosen to perform at the state festival, and this piece certainly showcases our students in the cast and crew“ notes director Patrick Spreadbury.  

Cast member Logan Venable said, "This show has helped me grow and develop as a performer in multiple ways…these stories truly have impacted me and I hope that they impact others as well! I am so happy to be a part of this production and look forward to people seeing this beautiful show!” Stage crew member Owen Abbott mentioned that “Even though we’ve rehearsed so many times, I’m still amazed every time I hear this ensemble sing.”

Music Director, Ann Kotze, is “certain the audience will connect with at least one of these sweet, moving stories (likely more than one!) and leave with a sense of hope in our next generation of musical theatre performers." 

A public performance before the festival will be open to the public.  One performance, at Lincoln-Way West High School in New Lenox, IL will take place on January 11th at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10/adults and $5/students.  For more information about the show, or to purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/lwetheorytix.