LEXINGTON, Va., Oct. 28, 2021—The coronavirus pandemic sidelined the VMI Theatre 50th Anniversary celebration in 2020, but this milestone celebration has been rescheduled spring 2022.

Since 1970, VMI Theatre has been a continuing source of live stage entertainment and enlightenment for cadets, VMI faculty and staff, and community performers. It has survived all over VMI post in make-shift theaters in Scott Shipp Hall, Lejeune Hall, the Nichols Engineering Auditorium, Cameron Hall, Moody Hall, and finally, since 2009 in the beautiful Gillis Theater in Marshall Hall named for Leslie Gillis ’29.

All VMI Theatre alumni and others who appreciate what the theatre has accomplished over the last 52 years are welcome to “come home” and celebrate with the current roster of VMI Theatre thespians!

The schedule for the celebration includes three performances of a play yet to be selected in Gills Theater on the evenings of Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30, and on the afternoon of May 1. There will also be a special reception on the evening of Saturday, Apr. 30 for VMI Theatre alumni and friends in the Hall of Valor in Marshall Hall. Reservations are required to attend the special reception.

Mrs. Joellen Bland has served as VMI Theatre director since February 1982. Col. Michael “Mike” S. Harris served as faculty advisor since 1976 until passing away in September 2004. VMI Theatre alumni, assistant directors, faculty advisers, and area performers have kept the program going. All are encouraged to make plans to join the current VMI Theatre roster for the “50th Plus Two” celebration!

To RSVP to the reception for Saturday, April 30 at 6 p.m., please contact Joellen Bland, at blandjk@vmi.edu or 540-464-7389.

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