‘Syd, the Solstice Kid’ opens Nov. 19 at NMSU

“Syd, the Solstice Kid” is “an hour-long musical journey exploring the customs and legends surrounding the winter solstice from diverse cultures,” the NMSU Theatre Department said in a news release about its upcoming production.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 19-20 and 26-27 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28 in the Mark and Stephanie Medoff Theatre at the ASNMSU Center for the Arts, 1000 E. University Ave.

Tickets are available online at www.onthestage.tickets/show/new-mexico-state-university/syd-the-solstice-kid-85401 or visit https://theatre.nmsu.edu/, click on the purple “Syd, the Solstice Kid” poster and then click on “BUY TICKETS.” You can also buy tickets at Center for the Arts before each performance. Or, to purchase tickets by phone, call 575-646-4515.

The cast includes four talented NMSU theatre students – three seniors and one freshman -- Dominique Gomez, Kamryn Neill, Riley Merritt and JJ Hanley. The show is directed by NMSU Theatre Department Head Wil Kilroy, with musical direction by Theatre Department assistant professor Lisa Hermanson. The musical was adapted by Lani Bookman, with music and lyrics by Susan Bardsley.

“While ‘Syd, the Solstice Kid’ was chosen so that families could bring their young children to a theatrical experience, this rollicking musical is sure to charm viewers of all ages,” Kilroy said. “The four cast members will inspire you with their endless energy and their whirlwind of characters, from the wise old doctor to grandfather praying mantis. The music will have your toes tapping, and at times the performers will encourage you to sing along if you’d like!  While the legends and customs presented from around the world (Scandinavia, Canada, Africa and China) will educate the young, I’m betting all ages will learn something new from Syd, while being thoroughly entertained during this non-stop hour of theatre, song and dance.”