DETROIT— Opening its 52nd season, the Detroit Mercy Theatre Company (DMTC) presents the
Michigan premiere of Airness by Chelsea Marcantel. A 2017 Humana Festival hit, “Airness” is the
story of a group of air guitar competitors as they move through competitions, love, loss and finding the
inner rock star inside themselves.

Airness follows Nina as she enters her first air guitar competition thinking winning will be easy. But as
she meets a group of charismatic nerds determined to become the next air guitar champion, she discovers
more about the true meaning of the art form and herself.

“Our season opens with a rockin’ good time with ‘Airness,’” said Greg Grobis, chair of the Department of
Performing Arts at University of Detroit Mercy and managing director for the Detroit Mercy Theatre
Company. “Following our two national awards from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre
Festival last season, this show is the perfect way to celebrate and challenge our talented group of students
artists.”

“The beating heart of its characters make ‘Airness’ a very special piece,” said director Mycah Artis.
“Everyone can see themselves in this show as we all have that inner rock star who loves to play air guitar
at home in our pajamas. This show reminds us that everything we need to succeed is already inside of us
as long as you believe in yourself. Audiences can expect to know and love the music of this show, as well
as the air guitar performances from the cast and a hilarious script — this show has it all and some more
unexpected surprises.”

Airness is written by Chelsea Marcantel and directed by guest artist Artis, whose credits include
Outvisible Theatre and A Host of People. The performance on Saturday, Nov. 5 will be followed by the
Detroit Theatre Discussion Project. Titled “Unleash Your Inner Rock Star,” the talkback will be led by air
guitar expert Dave Ayling, a.k.a. The Rocktapus, who will instruct audience members in basic air guitar
moves. For more information on special events, visit udmercy.edu/life/theatre.

Airness runs six performances Oct. 28-Nov. 6 at The Marlene Boll Theatre inside the Boll Family
YMCA at 1401 Broadway in Detroit. Purchase tickets online at www.DetroitMercyArts.com or by calling
the ticket office at 313-993-3270. The DTMC Ticket Office is open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Individual ticket prices are $25 for adults, $18 for seniors and Detroit Mercy faculty and staff, $10 for
veterans and $10 for students with valid ID. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. To
schedule your group, contact Sarah Hawkins Rusk at 313-993-3273. Audiences should note that
“Airness” contains strong language and adult themes and may not be suitable for children under the age
of 13.