“Circle Mirror Transformation” Coming to Springfield Stage

The University of Illinois Springfield Theatre Program will present six performances of “Circle Mirror Transformation” by Annie Baker over two weekends in April.

Performances are scheduled for April 10–12 and April 16–18 in the UIS Theatre Acting Studio, located in Room 170 of the Visual and Performing Arts Building. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, April 12. A post-show discussion will follow the April 16 performance. Guests should park in Lot B West.

The play is set in a small-town Vermont community center, where a group of residents gathers each week for an adult acting class led by Marty. Through simple exercises, participants form unexpected connections while revealing their insecurities and hopes. As the weeks pass, the line between performance and reality begins to blur, creating a space for self-discovery.

The production is directed by Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson, professor and director of theatre, with scenic design and technical direction by Dathan Powell, associate professor of theatre.

The cast includes UIS students Rachel Hettrick as Marty and Sylus Zawicki as Schultz; UIS staff member Mike Krcil as James; UIS alumna Shea Lanier as Theresa; and community member Audrey Jurs as Lauren.

The production team includes UIS students, faculty, staff and community members. UIS theatre major Chloe Pease serves as stage manager, with UIS student Cristal Aguilar as assistant stage manager. UIS theatre major Erin Brennan is costume coordinator, with UIS student London Hobby-Ruffin on wardrobe and run crew. UIS theatre major Yash Gajera is the dramaturg and UIS student Chip Deiss handles sound research and design. Community member Sabrina Holmes serves as props master.

Due to ongoing construction in the UIS Performing Arts Center, all 2025–26 UIS Theatre productions are being held in the Acting Studio.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance online or in person beginning one hour before each performance at the entrance to VPA 170.