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

Performances will take place over two weekends: April 10–12 and April 16–18 in the UIS Theatre Acting Studio, located in Room 170 of the Visual and Performing Arts Building (VPA). Performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, April 12. A post-show discussion will be held following 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, the participants begin to form unexpected connections, revealing their insecurities and quiet hopes. As the weeks pass, the line between performance and reality blurs, and the class becomes a space for self-discovery. Blending humor and subtle emotion, the play explores how small moments of creativity and vulnerability can quietly transform everyday lives.

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, a theatre major, 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 consists of 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 serving on wardrobe/run crew. UIS theatre major Yash Gajera is the dramaturg and UIS student Chip Deiss handles sound research/design. Community member Sabrina Holmes is props master.

Due to ongoing construction in the UIS Performing Arts Center, all 2025–26 UIS Theatre productions will be held in the Acting Studio in the Visual and Performing Arts Building.

Tickets are $10 and may be purchased in advance on the UIS Theatre website or in person (cash only) beginning one hour prior to each performance at the entrance to VPA 170.