Viterbo University Conservatory for the Performing Arts to Present the Musical "I Love You Because" Jan. 29–Feb. 1

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Jan. 19, 2026

Contact Brittany Bara at 608-796-3792 or bmbara@viterbo.edu

VITERBO UNIVERSITY CONSERVATORY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS TO PRESENT THE MUSICAL I LOVE YOU BECAUSE JAN. 29–FEB. 1

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LA CROSSE, Wis. – Enjoy a musical love story with plenty of 1990s sitcom nostalgia as the Viterbo University Conservatory for the Performing Arts presents I Love You Because Thursday, Jan. 29–Sunday, Feb. 1 in the Fine Arts Center LaCroix Black Box Theatre.

Described as a modern-day Pride and Prejudice, I Love You Because is a quirky, romantic comedy in which opposites attract—and collide—as four New Yorkers navigate love in the big city.

“Audience members will enjoy a heartwarming experience about friendship, romance, and relationships,” Viterbo faculty member Brittany Bara, who is directing the production. “The characters are fun and loveable, and the music is what made me fall in love with the show. It’s beautiful and tugs on the heart strings in all the right places.”

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The cast of "I Love You Because."

I Love You Because stars Viterbo students Zachary Buhl, Tucker Mensen, Abbey Messing, McKenzie Russ, Sony Vassor, and Annie Voss. The intimate setting of the LaCroix Black Box Theatre will help to immerse the audience in the story, and the setting and tone will resemble popular television programs like Friends and Will and Grace.

“The students are doing a phenomenal job,” Bara said. “It’s really a fun, face-paced show and I hope people come out, have a good time, and leave with a smile on their face.”

I Love You Because is recommended for ages 13 and older for contemporary romantic themes, innuendo, and some adult language. It is suitable for older teens Music is by Joshua Salzman, book and lyrics by Ryan Cunningham, and orchestrations by Larry Hochman. It is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights Worldwide 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 640, New York, NY 10036. www.theatricalrights.com.

Performance times are 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29–31 and 2 p.m. Feb. 1. Tickets are $16 for general admission seating, plus a $3 convenience fee and $1 facility fee per ticket. All orders will include a 5.5% sales tax. For more information or to order tickets, contact the Viterbo box office at 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets.

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