Submitted Photo “The SpongeBob Musical” cast members, from left to right, are Cris Gifford as Sheldon J. Plankton, Camden Gifford as Patrick Star, Joey Fields as SpongeBob SquarePants, Sarah Belfrage Honerman as Perch Perkins and Sierra Jobman as Mrs. Puff.

Minot State University Summer Theatre will wrap up its 60th anniversary season with a splash as “The SpongeBob Musical” opens Wednesday, July 23. The high-energy production is directed by Chad Gifford and runs through July 31.

Based on the beloved animated series, “The SpongeBob Musical” follows the ever-optimistic sea sponge and his friends in Bikini Bottom as they face the threat of a volcanic eruption. Along the way, SpongeBob proves that even the most unlikely heroes can save the day. The musical features an energetic score, with songs from music legends such as David Bowie, Aerosmith, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, and Panic! At the Disco.

“One thing I love about ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ is that it takes a classic cartoon, humanizes it, and then gives it an uplifting message surrounded by catchy music,” director Chad Gifford said in a news release. “It’s a heart-warming and hilarious show that’ll end Season 60 with a bang for all our friends and family.”

Performances are scheduled for July 23-26 and July 28-31, with each show beginning at 8:30 p.m. The box office opens at 8 p.m. An American Sign Language interpreted performance, sponsored by the Minot Sertoma Club, will be held Thursday, July 24. Deaf and hard of hearing guests are encouraged to contact the box office at 858-3228 for information on reserved seating.