When Theatre TCU last staged “Melrose Stories,” the internet was still developing, and social media platforms like Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter, did not exist.

Many of TCU’s current students weren’t even born.

21 years later, writer and director Thomas J. Walsh‘s romantic comedy “Melrose Stories” continues to resonate with audiences today.

“This is the most touching show I’ve ever been in,” said Will Van Dam, a sophomore theatre major who plays T.D. Kellogg in the production that opens on Feb. 25.

This production differs from the original, with a brand-new cast and theater venue. Debuted in the Hayes Theater, this year’s production will take place in the Jerita Foley Buschman Theatre in Ed Landreth Hall.

“Obviously different cast… same director, same writer,” Van Dam said. “A hilarious, witty show, and there are moments of true beauty. This is a very real show about people in pain, people in love and people coping. Short answer on why people should come to see it is… it’s beautiful.”

Walsh holds a doctorate in theatre history and criticism and a Master of Fine Arts in playwriting from the University of Texas at Austin. Walsh also boasts an impressive tenure at TCU as a professor, teaching theatre history, acting, advanced scene study and survey of theatre. His monologues from his character T.D. Kellogg have been recognized in “Best Monologues of 2020” published by Smith & Kraus.

“He has a very loving teaching style,” Katelyn Joy Moore, a senior theatre major, said. “I really respect him for his ability to be compassionate with all of his students as well as hold them accountable. I will always have a very special place in my heart for Dr. Walsh because he was one of the first professors at TCU who made me feel like I had a place at this school.”

“Melrose Stories” runs from Feb. 25 to March 2. Tickets are on sale for $10 with a valid TCU ID.