No Script, No Limits: Department of Theatre Presents ‘MSU UnScripted’

Get ready to laugh and shout because nothing is scripted! The Michigan State University Department of Theatre proudly presents “MSU UnScripted,” directed by Sarah Hendrickson, MSU Department of Theatre instructor, improviser, actress, and producer. The show runs Dec. 4-7, 2025, at Studio 60 Theatre in the MSU Auditorium building.

Two students stand side by side in an improv rehearsal, each holding their hands up mid-gesture as if responding to an imagined situation. One wears an MSU Spartan hoodie and the other a black graphic T-shirt. — “MSU UnScripted” cast members rehearse for their upcoming performances Dec. 4-7. The cast is made up entirely of first-year and transfer students. *(Photos by Chloe Seare)*

A student in a brown coat with a fur-trimmed collar gestures with one hand while smiling during an improv scene. — “MSU UnScripted” cast members rehearse for their upcoming performances Dec. 4-7. The cast is made up entirely of first-year and transfer students. *(Photos by Chloe Seare)*

This annual favorite pushes MSU Department of Theatre first-year and transfer students to perform fast-paced improv scenes in front of a live audience, while audience members are invited to participate by offering suggestions.

No scripts. No safety net. Just quick thinking, fearless collaboration, and spontaneous comedy that changes every night.

“I look forward to this show every year because I get to witness new friends form bonds and create space for each other’s creativity. This ensemble impresses me every day with their authenticity, empathy, and creative risk-taking.”
Sarah Hendrickson, Director

“One of my favorite principles of improvisation is the idea that there are no mistakes, only opportunities to explore a new idea,” said Hendrickson, now in her eighth year directing “MSU UnScripted.” “Improv comedians are constantly looking at given circumstances with a new perspective and working as an ensemble to achieve a common goal.”

A seated student with folded arms looks ahead as two standing students observe her, each with a hand on their chin. — Cast members of “MSU UnScripted” rehearse improv techniques. *(Photos by Chloe Seare)*

Three students rehearse an improv exercise in a studio. One student in a white tank top and patched jeans leans forward, another in an MSU sweatshirt raises an arm, and a third reacts. Lighting equipment and chairs are visible in the background — Cast members of “MSU UnScripted” rehearse improv techniques. *(Photos by Chloe Seare)*

“MSU UnScripted” is the Department of Theatre’s annual chance for incoming Theatre students to perform, with each performance being a one-of-a-kind and where the energy from the audience shapes the show in real time. It is a reminder that great theatre often begins with the simple courage to say “yes, and.”

“I look forward to this show every year because I get to witness new friends form bonds and create space for each other’s creativity,” Hendrickson said. “This ensemble impresses me every day with their authenticity, empathy, and creative risk-taking.”

Performance Dates and Times:

Thursday, Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 6, 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 7, 2 p.m.

Tickets

Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased online at whartoncenter.com, in person at the Wharton Center Ticket Office, or by calling 517-432-2000 or 1-800-WHARTON.

General Admission: $24
Seniors (60+): $23
MSU Faculty and Staff: $23
Non-MSU Students: $13
MSU Students: FREE ticket per student with valid MSU ID. Pick up the free ticket an hour before the performance at the Studio 60 box office or day of/days prior at the Wharton Center Ticket Office.

By Buu-Tran Duong