Michigan State students rehearse new musical ‘Discovery’ at Wharton Center

On Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, Michigan State University students led by conductor Dan Gibson rehearsed the new musical 'Discovery' at the Wharton Center in East Lansing. The production, written by Alex Higgin-Houser and composed by Gibson, tells the story of NASA’s astronaut corps following the 1986 Challenger disaster and the 1988 launch of space shuttle Discovery. The show focuses on Sally Ride, the first female astronaut to go to space, and explores themes of perseverance, healing, and self-realization.

The rehearsal marks a collaboration between the MSU Department of Theatre and the Wharton Center, facilitated through the New Musical Laboratory (NML). The partnership allows students to work with Broadway professionals and develop new works. Cast members include animal science senior Sarah "Bel" Corwin as Sally Ride, acting junior Aubriana Scott as astronaut Mary Cleave, and ensemble member Anna Zaccari. The fast‑paced rehearsal schedule has required the cast to adapt scripts and blocking daily, creating a dynamic learning environment.

The production will run at the Wharton Center’s Pasant Theatre from Sept. 24 to 27, giving audiences a chance to experience the musical’s full‑length performance. After this run, the show will continue to develop through additional workshops and regional runs as it moves toward Broadway. The project exemplifies Michigan’s vibrant performing arts scene and the ongoing collaboration between academic and professional theater communities.

Read the full story at statenews.com.