Penn State Centre Stage will perform “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812″ from October 17 to 29 at the Playhouse Theater. Written by American playwright and composer Dave Malloy, the musical debuted at the Imperial Theatre in New York in November 2016 and ran for 336 performances. 

Based upon Leo Tolstoy’s “War & Peace,” “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812” brings new life to the classic story. Testing the ambiguity of young love, the musical is a pop opera, featuring electronic beats to modernize the sound of the historical story. 

Set in Moscow, Russia, in the 1800s, the musical features Natasha, the young and restless ingenue, and Pierre, the old soul. Both are wealthy aristocrats, well-known in society but not particularly close until the plot thickens with time. 

As their respective love stories become increasingly intertwined, destiny takes the reins while the looming threat of the Great Comet lurks over the traditional city. As Natasha falls in and out of love, joy turns to grief for both parties and condemns all who find themselves involved with the unexpected duo.

Directed by Christine O’Grady, assistant professor of musical theatre and graduate directing, “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812” promises lively music and a compelling story for the audiences of Penn State. 

“Come party with us as we explore the moral ambiguities of love and satisfaction and await the fate of The Great Comet passing overhead,” O’Grady said.

Evening performances will take place at 7:30 p.m., and a few ticket options are available. Student tickets can be purchased for $15, while reserved seats and general admission tickets cost $23. Those who select general admission tickets will actually be seated in the “Soiree Section,” which can be found onstage and is described as “part of the show.”