LSC-Montgomery's MOTU Musical Delights Audiences
Lone Star College-Montgomery's theatre program in Conroe staged a sold-out "Masters of the Universe: The New Musical." The show was a nostalgic tribute to
CONROE, Texas — The iconic power of Grayskull found a new home in Montgomery County this month as Lone Star College-Montgomery’s Theatre Department concluded a sold-out run of "Masters of the Universe: The New Musical." The production, which transformed the college’s Mainstage Theatre into the world of Eternia, served as a vibrant tribute to 1980s pop culture, blending high-energy musical theater with the campy charm of the original Mattel toy line and the beloved Filmation cartoon series.
The production ran from November 9 through November 17, drawing audiences who came as much for the nostalgia as for the local talent. Under the steady hand of Theatre Department Chair Chase Waites, the show aimed to balance the absurdity of a 40-year-old cartoon with a genuine musical theater narrative.
The plot followed the quintessential origin story of Prince Adam, played with charismatic precision by Alex Flores. Flores navigated the dual requirements of the role—the youthful, uncertain prince and his hulking alter-ego, He-Man—with a dynamic physical performance. Opposite him, Adrian Soto provided a standout turn as the arch-villain Skeletor. Soto’s portrayal leaned into the character’s classic theatricality, balancing menacing cackles with the biting wit that made the character a fan favorite for generations.
The creative team behind the project, led by Waites, Jason Pomerantz, and Eric C. Jones, sought to ground the far-fetched premise in relatable themes. Pomerantz, who also composed the show’s original music and lyrics, crafted a score that leaned into synth-heavy, 80s-inspired pop-rock, designed to mirror the aesthetic of the decade that birthed the franchise.
The ensemble cast rounded out the production with iconic characters that resonated with the audience. Lexi Turner brought a commanding presence to Teela, while Alex Funderburk offered a grounded performance as Man-At-Arms. The cast was completed by Sam Seifert as the lovable, chaotic Orko, Cynthia Flores as the cunning Evil-Lyn, and Valerie Sisk as the mystical Sorceress.
For many attendees, the production was a family affair, bridging the gap between parents who watched the original Saturday morning cartoons and children experiencing the mythos for the first time. The $10 ticket price point was designed to ensure the production remained accessible to the local Conroe community, fostering a packed house during both the evening performances and the Saturday matinee on November 11.
Lone Star College-Montgomery has long been a hub for experimental and community-focused theater, but "Masters of the Universe: The New Musical" represented a unique shift toward contemporary intellectual property. By utilizing a brand with significant cultural cachet, the department succeeded in drawing in students and community members who might otherwise overlook a traditional collegiate production.
Those who missed the run or wish to see more from the LSC-Montgomery Theatre Department can find information on upcoming performances and academic programs at the college’s official website, lonestar.edu/arts-montgomery. The department’s season continues in the spring, with further announcements expected in early 2024.