Pepperdine University's Theatre Department will stage "The Light in the Piazza" from April 8–11, 2026, at Smothers Theatre on the Malibu campus — and the production carries special significance as the final directorial work of Cathy Thomas-Grant, who is retiring after 31 years with the program.
Set in 1953 Italy, the musical follows Margaret Johnson, a Southern woman vacationing with her daughter Clara, whose whirlwind romance with a young Italian man forces Margaret to wrestle with whether to reveal a family secret. The show won six Tony Awards in 2005, including Best Musical and Best Book.
"This musical really gives your heart a workout," Thomas-Grant said. "There is a mirror up there for you somewhere. There is going to be somebody that you're going to be able to relate to."
Students received specialized coaching from Italian language director Brittany Tagliati Corbucci, who praised the cast's dedication to authentic cultural portrayal.
"They are so expressive that, despite the language barrier, they're able to convey joy, love, anger, and especially make us laugh out loud," Tagliati Corbucci said.
Tickets are $23 for the public, $19 for Pepperdine faculty and staff, and $13 for full-time students. They are available by calling (310) 506-4522 or at the event page: https://arts.pepperdine.edu/theatre/
Edited by SMDP Staff