Since 1969, MU’s Summer Repertory Theatre has produced more than 120 productions. As the company heads into its 43rd year, a variety of distinguished shows have been planned for the enjoyment of both MU students and Columbia citizens.

With more than 50 students involved, SRT gives students the ability to continue their passion for theater in a more advanced and professional atmosphere that involves more people than just MU theater students.

“You get to work with different people, people from other departments, people from the community,” theater major Bill Dew said.

By expanding the cast outward to other students and community members, this year’s productions hope to carry on SRT’s commitment of being more than just an MU project, said Charles Willis, the department of theatre’s coordinator of advertising and promotions.

Starting in July, SRT will perform two main productions: the musical “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” and the play “The Importance of Being Earnest.” These two shows focus on a central theme of romance.

In addition to the two main stage productions, SRT has chosen two shows to be a part of the special event Comedies in Concert. These performances are unique in the fact they are rehearsed and performed in the same day.

The first of the two “concerts,” Kenneth L. Stilson’s “Murphy’s Law,” will be performed July 17 without a single rehearsal. The show contains humor and violence and moves in a “Sopranos”-like fashion as audiences witness the evolution of a friendship from involvement in organized crime, according to the SRT website.

“Sexiversary,” the second of the two “concerts,” will be performed July 24. This comedy written by Gabrielle Roman examines the multitude of relationships present throughout one’s life and the hilarity of living through them.

Each production put on this summer by SRT is light-hearted, funny and filled with talent, Willis said.

“They are the perfect escape from life’s troubles and the summer heat,” he said.

Performances run throughout July and tickets will be available starting June 4.