Middlesex Community College’s theatre department is proud to present Neil Simon’s award-winning “Rumors” for its Fall 2024 production. The play will run for four performances from Thursday, December 5 to Sunday, December 8 at the college’s Richard and Nancy Donahue and Family Academic Arts Center in Lowell.

“Neil Simon’s ‘Rumors’ is a masterclass in comedic chaos from one of the most iconic playwrights of all time,” said Karen Oster, MCC’s Chair of Performing Arts. “For students, it’s a golden opportunity to dive into Simon’s razor-sharp dialogue and fast-paced farce, while for audiences, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to face the madness of modern life is to laugh – and nobody does that better than Neil Simon.”

The farcical play features four couples at a dinner party, including a wounded mayor and his missing wife. MCC Theatre Arts student Jim Gannon, of North Reading, will play the character Officer Welch who is trying to investigate a traffic accident. “Rumors” is Gannon’s second show since starting at MCC in Fall 2023.

student performers act out scene

“For me, [the play] is a chance to learn and practice a craft I have always wanted to pursue,” Gannon said. “I love that every day I get to interact with my fellow students.”

Curtain times for MCC’s production are 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 5; Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7, as well as 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 8. Tickets are free for MCC students with their ID, $5 for non-MCC students, $10 for MCC faculty and staff, and $18 for general admission.

MCC’s Academic Arts Center is located at 240 Central Street in Lowell. With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St.

Visit MCC's theatre department for more information, including to buy tickets.