Department/group discounts offered by Empire Arts Center for back-to-school event

The Empire Theatre Company is offering a steep discount for departments and/or groups attending their season opener, “Hands on a Hard Body,”  Aug. 13, 17, 18, 20 at 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 14 and 21 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $15 each when purchasing a block for 20 or more people at the same time. “Many departments have a beginning of the semester get-together, and we thought this would be a great back to school event for staff, faculty, R.A.s, teams, and students,” said Kathleen Coudle-King, associate teaching professor, English; and the Empire Theatre Company’s managing artistic director.

The show revolves around 10 Texans competing to win a new pickup by keeping one hand on it the longest. The score includes country, rock, and even a gospel number. Based on the award-winning documentary of the same name, the Empire is producing this show at the Grand Forks County Fairgrounds.

“Because of the venue, we are encouraging tailgating parties, something we don’t normally have for musicals,” Coudle-King said. The Fairgrounds will also have a food truck on site, and there are picnic tables for audience members. Pre-show line dancing might also “spontaneously erupt,” said Coudle-King. “You just never know.”  For group ticketing, please call 701-746-5500 or for regular ticketing visit www.empireartscenter.com.