It’s been nearly 85 years since Muncie Civic Theatre began creating theater productions – an impressive accomplishment for a local community group. But, members say they are even more grateful for the bridge the productions have created among people in Muncie.

Ball State University students and professors, and community members young and old take to the stage each year to perform, and Civic’s upcoming production of “Into the Woods” is no different.

Ball State theater professor Beth Turcotte has been a member of the Muncie Civic community since she began teaching 34 years ago. Playing the role of Jack’s Mother in this whimsical stage production filled with beloved fairytale characters and complicated plot lines, Turcotte has found it rewarding to work with Ball State students, some of which she has in class.

Turcotte calls the partnership between Ball State and the Muncie Civic “wonderful,” saying that many opportunities for both students and community members arise from Civic’s shows.

“I love the arts,” Turcotte said. “I love what it does to a community and for a community.”

“Into the Woods” runs through Nov. 1. Tickets can be purchased online. For more information on Muncie Civic Theatre and its upcoming productions, visit its website.

Jillian MacNulty is a reporter for a Ball State immersive-learning arts journalism course.