ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Northern State University Theatre Program will present the musical "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Jewett Theater.

Performances will run at 7:30 p.m. nightly Oct. 21-23 and at 3 p.m. Oct. 24.

In this hilarious musical version of the famous film, two conmen attempt to put one over on more than a few ladies. “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” is set in the French Riviera where the charming swindler Lawrence takes a rough American grifter named Freddy as his apprentice in the art of the con. But when they both find themselves chasing the “Soap Queen of America”—the alluring if clumsy Christine—they may have met their match!

Music major Dylan Rausch last appeared in “The Pirates of Penzance” in the spring. He is thrilled to take to the Jewett stage as Lawrence, saying, “This is the first time in my five years here that I have landed a lead role and it’s been a great feeling. This show has been such a learning experience not only for me being able to create my own version of Lawrence, but also to watch the cast grow. I think this show has some of the most talented students Northern has to offer.”

Rausch’s excitement is shared by director Kane Anderson, who loves seeing so many new faces among the cast. “With majors from music to biology to education and everything in between, the cast of ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ comes together to share their penchant for laughter and song. It has been extremely gratifying to see so many students who are new to theatre blossom into fun performers who can’t wait to share their love of the stage with Aberdeen’s audiences.”

Loretta Simon is a senior Theatre major playing Muriel, a romance-starved heiress who falls prey to Lawrence’s scam. “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” is her culminating senior project. “The role of Muriel and the complexities of this show are beneficial to me as a student because it’s the type of show I don’t often have the opportunity to perform in. I’ve never regretted being in shows I’m not very familiar with. I’m always surprised at how quickly I fall in love with them. Working on this role ensures that I’ll complete my degree in the spring, and that I will be well equipped to take on projects and roles to come.”

The production is directed by Dr. Kane Anderson, Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing. Northern’s artistic staff includes Noah J. Files, Assistant Professor of Theatre Design, as scenic designer; Michael Skyles, Instructor of Vocal Music, as music director; and Brian Omland is Production Manager. Northern Alumnus Brian T. Schultz of Aberdeen Community Theatre is serving as guest lighting designer.

Ticket Information

All tickets to “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” are general admission and will be available at the door. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and NSU faculty/staff. Students will be admitted for free. Payment will be cash or check only; debit or credit cards will not be accepted. There will be no advance or online ticket sales. For more information, contact the NSU School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.