Save the date for upcoming theatre events at Corban University!
The Phantom Tollbooth
Adapted for stage by Susan Nanus
Based on the book by Norton Juster
Directed by Jeremiah Price
The Phantom Tollbooth is a story of a young boy named Milo who is convinced that his life is boring, and that nothing is worth learning or doing—what’s the point? But one day, returning home from school, he discovers a package in his room—a magic tollbooth.
With nothing better to do, Milo drives his electric toy car through the tollbooth, and he immediately finds himself in a whimsical country called the Lands Beyond. Here he travels to strange places like Wisdom, The Doldrums, Dictionopolis, and Digitopolis where he meets characters like Rhyme, Reason, the Spelling Bee, Dr. Dischord, the Mathemagician, and a watchdog named Tock.
As Milo travels, he finds himself solving problems, overcoming challenges, making friends, and discovering adventures. When he finally returns to his room from his magical journey, Milo realizes that his life is not so tedious after all and that his own imagination and initiative can fuel a life time of adventures. The future is full of possibilities.
This is a story that appeals to young and old alike. The whimsical characters, comical situations, and locales delight children while the wordplay tickles the more intellectually inclined. While the play is full of fun and fancy, its conclusion drives home a few transformative truths: we can choose to be engaged with life; our curiosity and imagination can transform even mundane moments into beautiful and silly memories; and taking a few simple steps outside of ourselves can open up a whole new world.
This story reminds all of us that we live in an interesting and captivating world, but we must open our eyes to see the wonder.
Showtimes & Tickets
Matinee Performances: March 16 – 10:30am; March 26 – 2:00pm
Evening Performances: March 17, 18, 24, & 25 – 7:30pm
Tickets available beginning February 1. Click here to purchase tickets online.
Psalm Performing Arts Center
Corban University
5000 Deer Park Dr SE
Salem, OR 97317
Festival seating | Wheelchair accessible | Doors open for seating half an hour before production.
Corban Theatre Camp 2023
New Horizons
July 24 through August 5 • Grades 4–12
Registration coming soon. More info on our Theatre Camp page.