Tower Stories

Reanna Gonzalez
01 September 2026

Culture and Society Arts and Humanities General

MSU Texas Theatre presents free play on 25th anniversary of 9/11

Reanna Gonzalez
01 September 2026
2 min read

The MSU Texas Theatre opens its Fall 2026 season with Tower Stories, a production honoring those affected by the Sept. 11 attacks 25 years ago.

Based on Damon DiMarco’s 2007 book Tower Stories, the play uses the words of people who experienced the tragedy firsthand. Assistant Professor of Theatre Liz Redmill directs the production.

The story shifts among individuals grappling with loss, grief and survival. Redmill pointed to a firefighter struggling with survivor’s guilt after losing a friend, spouses who became widows and members of the cleanup crew as examples of the voices represented in the play.

It’s a tale of man versus internal conflict – of survivors overcoming the trauma in their own ways.

“There are some moments that are definitely hard, but I think it’s important to tell the story because that’s how we don’t repeat the past,” Redmill said. “We can’t forget if we keep telling those stories. That’s how we grow as humanity and a society. We have to keep telling the stories of those before us.”

Redmill was an undergraduate student when 9/11 occurred and remembers the day vividly. She recognizes many current students were not yet born and proposed Tower Stories in hopes of helping them connect with the event and its lasting impact.

To keep the focus on the stories themselves, the production features a minimal set and costumes. Redmill described it as a devised theater piece that strips away distractions and places the spotlight on the actors’ words and emotions.

“It’s not about fancy lights and costumes and set. It’s about the story, so we can focus on the humanity and honoring those that were involved in the tragedy,” Redmill said.

Since rehearsals began, students have developed a deeper connection to the material. One cast member shared they had lost their grandfather in 9/11, underscoring how far-reaching the tragedy remains.

“Even though it’s a tough piece, emotionally, it’s a great way to bond. The cast is really bonding and working as one,” Redmill said.

The cast includes students of various ages, one alumnus who graduated last Spring and the MSU Texas Student Government Association President.

Now in her second year at MSU Texas, Redmill directed Cabaret as her first major production at the university.

Admission to Tower Stories is free to everyone. Shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on September 10-12 in the Black Box Studio (B118) of Fain Fine Arts. There is limited seating, reserve tickets here. Lobby displays will help guide attendees.

“It’s not about making money; it’s about honoring those who were involved,” Redmill said.

Redmill noted that the Theatre department has begun utilizing social media platforms more to promote upcoming productions. Auditions are open to everyone, not just MSU Texas students. The department’s next show, Ordinary Days, runs September 24–27.