For the first time in university history, the Iowa State Department of Theater and the Veishea committee will combine efforts for this spring’s Stars Over Veishea production, “Bye Bye Birdie.”

“We are doing this in conjunction with the ISU theater department for the first time ever,” said Daniel Faidley, general co-chair for Veishea 1997.

Stars Over Veishea is the festival’s annual dramatic production. Faidley said a few minor changes were implemented because of the arrangement.

This year the Veishea committee has access to all of the theater department’s resources. Faidley said Veishea will provide the manpower and the set. The theater department will provide additional supplies.

“It’s a cooperative effort,” Faidley said.

The traditional Thursday night show will be replaced this year with a performance for an all-high school audience.

“We will invite students from many different high schools,” Faidley said. “This is something that the theater department has done in the past.”

Theater and Veishea officials are working on specific details of the production. Faidley said both groups anticipate a long-term relationship.

“We will see how it works,” Faidley said. “So far it seems to be working.”

“Bye Bye Birdie” performances will be held during the Veishea celebration, April 18, 19 and 20. The Friday and Saturday shows will take place at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday matinee will be presented at 2 p.m. All performances will be held in C.Y. Stephens Auditorium.

The high school performance will be Friday at 10 a.m.

Auditions for “Bye Bye Birdie” took place Jan. 26 and Jan. 28. Final cast decisions will be made by Friday.