2022-2023 Season

The Book of Will   (Masked performance) Hormel Theatre                       September 11, 2022

In a race to beat the sands of the hourglass, Henry Condell and John Heminges are dedicated to preserving the works and legacy of their good friend William Shakespeare – which is endangered by the plagiarism of his work at the Globe Theatre. In a chaotic rush to collect what will eventually be the First Folio – Lauren Gunderson’s play takes us on a witty and moving journey as the two join forces with his acting troupe, facing a wide array of characters and obstacles who threaten the bard’s legacy forever. The Book of Will is as much of a love story to Shakespeare and preserving the portrait of the man we know today as it is to the love of language, theatre, and friendship.

BANDSTAND                                               Mainstage Theatre                               October 14, 2022

Donny Novitski returns home from WWII in 1945 to parades and celebrations in his small town of Ohio, but, amongst the festivity, he feels lost. Deciding to return to his love of music and life as a pianist, Donny forms a band with veterans who also feel the lingering effects of war and together they enter a national swing band competition for the chance to perform beneath the shining lights of New York City. But when he meets Julia – the widow of his best friend during the war – questions of survival on and off the battlefield permeate their musical muse and she joins the musicians as they seek recognition for their musical talents. Featuring spectacular choreography, an ensemble of actor-musicians, and fantastic instrumentalists who will get your heart moving, Bandstand is a victorious and jazzy story of America’s heroes who find home, purpose, and belonging within the rhythmic beats of swing, bebop, and jitterbug.

Cinderella                                                    Mainstage Theatre                               December 9, 2022

We have all heard the story of the girl who learns to believe in what’s possible – but this contemporary twist on Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic is filled with stunning orchestrations, witty dialogue, and features a new cast of characters (and a few new songs, too!). Set in a kingdom ruled by a well-intentioned but misaligned prince, and nominated for nine Tony Awards including Best Book of a Musical and Best Musical Revival, Douglas Carter Beane’s refreshing book will empower royals of all ages everywhere to rule with kindness and fairness – while reminding you of the magic in every day.

An American In Paris                                Mainstage Theatre                               February 17, 2023

Full of grandeur and set to the exhilarating music of George and Ira Gershwin, this new hit musical inspired by the 1951 film includes the timeless favorites, “’S Wonderful,” “I Got Rhythm,” and “You Can’t Take That Away From Me.” The story follows a young American soldier and French girl each yearning for a new beginning in the most romantic city in the world – amongst breathtaking ballet, sweeping scores, and decadent dance. This modern and theatrical telling will make your soul soar with awe-inspiring beauty – prepare to be swept away.

The Last Five Years                                   Hormel Theatre                                   April 2, 2023

There are two perspectives in every love story. The Last Five Years will captivate you with its emotional examination of relationships and ingenious, interchanging structure between present and past. Intimate and bittersweet, Jason Robert Brown’s powerful, award-winning musical chronicles the triumphs, heartbreak, and intricacies of two artists in New York City. Cathy, a struggling actress, and Jamie, a literary prodigy, are in love but chasing their dreams to extents they may or may not admit to each other. Fall in and out of love with this hit musical deconstruction and compelling introspection that alternates through time. The musical’s unconventional structure unfolds as Cathy tells her story in reverse, from the end of their relationship, and Jamie tells his chronologically, from the beginning. The two come together once – perhaps for the first time – at their wedding in the middle of the show.

A Chorus Line                                              Mainstage Theatre                              May 5, 2023

Gritty, raw and revealing. What would you do for the love of theatre? A Chorus Line follows 17 dancers auditioning to be part of an eight-member chorus line. Composed by Marvin Hamlisch, this poignant concept musical explores these stakes in real-time as inspired by true stories of professional dancers – their joys, fears, and triumphs – during a time when we’re all longing to return – and bare it all – to the stage .

The Prom                                                     Mainstage Theatre                               June 30, 2023

When Emma wants to take her girlfriend to the prom, the PTA cancels the dance and her story goes viral on social media. Little does she know, four faded and eccentric Broadway performers are on their way to transform her small town of Indiana and throw her the prom of her dreams – albeit in an attempt to improve their own PR.  What begins as selfish insincerity results in a fabulous story of growth and a whole lot of zazz! You will cheer for love with these over-the-top, fun characters in this hilarious musical comedy that entertains with show stopping dance and Broadway spectacle. Will you go to The Prom with us?

Dreamgirls                                                   Mainstage Theatre                               August 25, 2023

Inspired by acts like Diana Ross and The Supremes, Dreamgirls follows the journey of Effie, Deena, and Lorrell as they rise to stardom in the 60s – and quickly learn what’s beneath the glitz and glam of success. Fame, fortune, and competition push their friendship to the limit in this high-energy musical told through gospel, R&B, smooth pop, and disco – featuring hits like “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” and “One Night Only.” You’re going to love this sensational story of sisterhood, perseverance, betrayal, and triumph – and question the price you’d pay for fame.