The Davis-Waldorf Performing Arts Series (DWPAS) returns to USAO for its 24th season and is bringing four new shows to the Te Ata Auditorium. DWAPS was created in the honor of Franics Davis, a theater professor, and Louis Waldorf, a music professor; USAO believes the arts should be implemented in all students’ lives no matter the major. As time has passed, the series has become more prestigious, bringing in acts not only nationally but also internationally. This year audiences can expect a tribute to early rock and roll greats, Japanese folktales, a dynamic fusion of street and classical dancing, and a comedic group.
“This kind of experience should be part of what happens when you go to college, and it should be something that’s life-changing,” Katie Davis, Executive Director of the Davis-Waldorf Performing Arts Series, said.
The opening show “One Night in Memphis” relives a night where the icons Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Jonny Cash get together for a session at the Sun Studios in Memphis. The show will be Thursday, Sept. 19. The sounds of rock and roll will greet the audience and transport them back to the 1950s.
The second show brings Kuniko Yamamoto to USAO to enchant audiences with Japanese folktales. The show will see traditional instruments, magical masks, and miming on the stage Thursday, Nov. 21.
The third show is the Fly Dance Company, which mixes street dancing with classical music. The worldwide phenomenon will entertain USAO’s audience Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025.
The final show of the 24th season welcomes The Second City Touring Company. The group will leave USAO in stitches as the group celebrates 65 years together. Their ‘iconic comedy archive” will be on full display for audiences Thursday, Mar. 27, 2025.
The four shows will take stage in the Te Ata Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Throughout the students’ four years of college, the series wants to give each student a new experience, causing repetition of a show to be rare. The main goal of this series is to expose the students and members of the community to many cultures and different types of arts.
Students can sign up for free season passes here.
Aryanna Gassoway is a second-year English Education major at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.
