The MSU Department of Theatre is on the scene again.

Beginning at 7:30 p.m. today in the Arena Theatre, the department will kick off the year with its annual open house.

The event takes place every year on the first Monday of the fall semester .

"It's a good way for freshmen to be introduced to the department and meet other theater students," said Tom McCartan, a theater senior.

McCartan, who attended the open house since his freshman year, has helped organize and make changes to this year's event. Tonight's skit will be based on a murder-mystery theme.

In addition to giving new students a chance to get to know the department's faculty, those in attendance have the opportunity to see a small skit written by the theater students.

"It's a fun way to begin the semester," said Lamont Clegg, spokesman for the department. "Plus, it's a time for the department to see each other after the summer."

Nate Cox, theater senior, said he has great expectations for the evening's outcome.

"I want the new coming freshmen to be excited about the upcoming season, and the returning students more excited," he said. He also said freshmen will be able to see a different type of performance compared to high school.

The department is not limited to theater majors only.

"It's really neat how people from all different backgrounds and majors can fully participate," Cox said. "Of all the arts, we are the most well grounded and professional."