Cleveland, Mississippi, is brimming with cultural treasures that captivate fans of both classic and contemporary entertainment. If you're seeking a playful musical, a thought-provoking drama, or a night of unstoppable laughter, you've arrived at the perfect spot to fuel your excitement. Located near the campus of Delta State University, these events and performances appeal to both students looking for a quick escape from the books and locals wanting to indulge in something spectacular. Before we dive into this curated lineup, don't forget to take advantage of our special discount on behalf of TicketSmarter—just apply the promo code
STATESMEN5 at checkout! Prepare to be immersed in a world where stories come to life, jokes fly fast, and the energy is always soaring.
Shucked Tickets
This new country-flavored musical comedy sprouted onto Broadway in 2023, surprising theater lovers with a fresh fusion of farmyard humor and toe-tapping tunes. Sprinkled with the creative vision of Robert Horn and Brandy Clark, it thrives on puns and playful, sometimes zany, comedic beats. A little-known tidbit is that early workshops showcased additional characters who never made the final cut, underscoring the show's evolving nature. Shucked has found an immediate fan following for its unique stage design and witty storytelling, proving that it's a show that refuses to be corny—even as it celebrates small-town charm with gusto.
Hailing from the heart of Tennessee, Nate Bargatze sports a laid-back style that resonates with audiences across the country. In his latest Netflix special, he takes an unhurried pace to discuss life's ordinary absurdities, turning everything from grocery store escapades to road trip mishaps into comedic gems. Bargatze's comedic roots trace back to his early childhood experiences, since he grew up around a father who was a magician, offering comedic fodder for years to come. His approach is squeaky-clean yet slyly observational, making his shows an appealing choice for a wide range of fans.
 "Get in, loser, we're going to the theater!" Adapted from Tina Fey's iconic 2004 film,
Mean Girls the musical erupted onto Broadway in 2018, earning praise for its exuberant choreography and sharp wit. During its pre-Broadway run, the creative team regularly shuffled scenes and songs, constantly refining to maintain its comedic momentum. Celebrity involvement goes beyond Tina Fey: Jeff Richmond's catchy tunes and Nell Benjamin's clever lyrics pack a comedic punch that resonates with both longtime movie fans and newcomers.
A trio of bald, blue-painted performers first emerged in New York City back in 1991. Known collectively as
Blue Man Group, they specialize in comedic physical routines, experimental percussion instruments, and interactive elements that often pull audience members into their wacky world. Historical trivia suggests that the original concept started as street performance art, eventually evolving into a globally recognized theater show with multiple resident productions. The group's combination of live music and wordless antics proves that sometimes the biggest statements can be made without any speech at all.
- Often featuring bright neon paint, their performances fuse electronic beats with rhythmic drumming.
- Each show is a kaleidoscope of color, whimsy, and fearless imagination.
Brad Williams burst onto the stand-up circuit through a chance encounter at a comedy club, where he spontaneously hopped on stage after a headliner joked about dwarfs. Since then, he's released multiple specials showcasing his raw, unfiltered comedic style that effortlessly dances between self-deprecating jests and social commentary. Williams, born with achondroplasia, often draws from personal experiences, weaving humor around topics many might shy away from but ultimately find genuinely insightful. His sets are known for high-energy, punchy deliveries that keep spectators laughing from start to finish.
 Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless masterpiece, first unveiled in London's West End in 1986, continues to enchant theatergoers across the globe.
The Phantom of the Opera has gathered numerous accolades, including the 1988 Tony Award for Best Musical. Early in its production history, the grandeur of the set design created such a stir that some theaters underwent renovations to accommodate the iconic chandelier drop. Combine that dramatic element with a hauntingly beautiful score, and you have a show that never fails to leave a lasting impression.
A sultry whirl of jazz, razzle-dazzle, and cunning showgirls,
Chicago was developed from a 1926 play by Maurine Dallas Watkins. The musical as we know it debuted on Broadway in 1975 with choreography by the legendary Bob Fosse, subsequently collecting an array of Tony Awards. Curious note: in the early days, many considered its vaudeville-inspired structure revolutionary, blending satirical commentary on celebrity culture with catchy melodies. Over the years, star-studded casts have kept Chicago on the map, proving that murder, intrigue, and high kicks never go out of style.
"Divorced, beheaded, died…" never sounded so vibrant until Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss unleashed
Six the Musical at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017. Inspired by the six wives of King Henry VIII, this pop-centric production reclaims historical narratives, giving each queen a chance to shine in her own signature style. With modern bops, sparkly costumes, and spirited girl-power themes, Six stands out as a contemporary retelling of monarchy mayhem.
When
The Lion King premiered on Broadway in 1997, audiences were spellbound by the remarkable puppetry, dazzling masks, and evocative African rhythms. Adapted from the 1994 Disney film, this stage production features music by Elton John and Tim Rice, complemented by director Julie Taymor's visionary design. Early workshops tested a variety of puppet constructions, ultimately employing elaborate shadow puppetry, towering giraffe stilts, and bold face masks to capture the essence of the savanna. Vibrant, uplifting, and steeped in universal themes, The Lion King remains an emotional journey for spectators of every age.
Michigan native Jeff Arcuri has been steadily building his comedy fan base via appearances on late-night television and bustling online platforms. His humor radiates a clever, observational wit that delves into everyday frustrations, random encounters, and societal quirks. Arcuri's latest special touches on topics ranging from the pitfalls of modern dating apps to the oddities of small-town living, all with a friendly comedic style that invites audiences to see the lighter side of life's challenges. Whether poking fun at himself or unraveling a universal annoyance, he maintains a quick pace that keeps laughter rolling throughout.
A mesmerizing mix of Greek mythology, folk music, and moody jazz,
Hadestown launched on Broadway in 2019, earning multiple Tony Awards. Conceived by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell as a concept album, it evolved through off-Broadway and Canadian runs before finding mainstream success. One hallmark of its journey was the gradual transformation from a minimalist concert to a full-scale theatrical production, with each version refining the show's dark, soulful aesthetic. The result is an alluring retelling of the ancient Orpheus and Eurydice myth, where longing and despair revolve around the possibility of hope.
Glamour, romance, and spectacle converge in
Moulin Rouge, the stage adaptation of Baz Luhrmann's iconic 2001 movie. After a developmental workshop phase, the musical premiered in 2018, featuring a reimagined soundtrack interwoven with current pop hits. This emphasis on grandeur and vibrant costuming has helped the production claim multiple Tony Awards, immersing attendees in a kaleidoscopic swirl of color, passion, and nostalgic charm.
Bright, bubbly, and brimming with heart,
Hairspray has drawn enthusiastic crowds since its Broadway debut in 2002. Evolving from John Waters' 1988 film, the musical adaptation combines 1960s-inspired music, big hairdos, and a storyline underscoring inclusivity. Hairspray's upbeat numbers, such as "Good Morning Baltimore," continue to inspire dancing and cheering, proving that the message of unity packaged in a lighthearted format resonates far and wide.
Taylor Tomlinson burst onto the national radar after a series of appearances in comedic competitions and late-night programs. Known for her autobiographical humor, she unpacks relationship woes, family eccentricities, and the perils of young adulthood with refreshing honesty. Her personal style is witty yet relatable, making each punchline feel like a shared secret between performer and audience. Having grown up in a conservative environment, Tomlinson embraces these contradictions in her specials, showcasing a comedic worldview that's simultaneously naive and sharply perceptive.
A heartfelt look at identity, connection, and the modern struggle for belonging,
Dear Evan Hanson burst onto Broadway in 2016. Benj Pasek and Justin Paul composed the emotional score, which quickly racked up awards, including multiple Tony wins. Stirring ballads like "Waving Through a Window" highlight the show's potent portrayal of personal vulnerability, ensuring that audiences connect on a deep and unforgettable level.
A Crimson Glow of Culture and Fun
Delta State Statesmen fans, you're in for a whirlwind of sights and sounds—from show-stopping musicals like
Chicago and
Moulin Rouge to the gravity-defying artistry of
Blue Man Group and comedic brilliance of Brad Williams, your entertainment cup runneth over. The synergy between Cleveland's local charm and these big-stage performances offers a memorable treat for theater aficionados and casual fans alike.
Are you ready to reserve seats for the spectacle of your choice? Don't forget to grab your tickets using promo code
STATESMEN5 for a stellar discount, courtesy of TicketSmarter. Let each melody, joke, and plot twist spark new excitement, and then share your stories with friends or fellow students, spreading the joy far beyond campus boundaries.
Raise Your Voice and Embrace the Applause!
Â
Â
