Fairfield University students produced the musical tick, tick…BOOM! at the Quick Center from Feb. 26 to March 1. The 2026 Student Independent Project played to sold-out crowds for the duration of the run.
The art of making theatre is incredibly hands-on. While there is a rich body of work to be analyzed in the classroom, stepping into the rehearsal room brings everything to a new level—what better way to learn than to actually do the work?
The Fairfield University Theatre Program’s annual Student Independent Project, or “Indy Project,” is an opportunity for Fairfield students to put their skills to the test through a theatrical production that is entirely student-produced—from the production team to the cast and crew. While Theatre program faculty provide support and guidance, it’s a time when student work can truly shine.
tick, tick…BOOM!
Chosen by the students, tick, tick…BOOM! is a 90-minute musical with book, music, and lyrics by Jonathan Larson, the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning composer of Rent.
Larson’s explosive musical about life, death, and the necessity of art, takes audiences on a semi-autobiographical journey following Jon, a composer struggling to break into New York City’s theatre scene and questioning his life choices on the eve of his 30th birthday. The production features clever and iconic songs including “30/90,” “Come to Your Senses,” and the Sondheim-inspired “Sunday”—reminding audiences to hold on to their dreams through life's most difficult challenges.
A Sold-Out Run
Every tick, tick…BOOM! performance during its run in the Wien Experimental Theatre at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts was a full sell-out.
Jacobo Merino Fernandez ’28 served as the director, scenic designer, and costume designer of the production. Nathanael Wilhelm ’27 was the assistant director and Gabriel Klein ’27 was the sound designer. Katie Cash ’28 served as production stage manager, Mia Loukhnikov ’28 as stage manager, and Abby Bell ’29 as light board operator and make-up artist. Emily Nasrah ’29 and Fernandez served as run crew, and Cara Rommeney ’26 as Front of House.
The cast featured Jacob Chaffee ’28 as Jon; Anthony Lupercio ’26 as Michael; Cassie Arena ’26 as Susan; and Kylee Faulkner ’26 as Karessa, while also serving as the production’s technical director and lighting designer. David Ilagan ’29 was a member of the Ensemble and understudy for Michael; Matthew Bulgar ’28 was also an Ensemble member and understudy for Jon.
