IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Dolly’s legacy
WHAT: As the world mourns Dolly Parton, the big-hearted singer-songwriter, entrepreneur and philanthropist who died Aug. 25, we have her songs to remember her by. One of her theatrical projects was writing the score to the stage adaptation of “9 to 5,” the 1980 comedy movie in which she starred with Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda. Two theaters have scheduled the musical, which depicts how three fed-up female office workers show their misogynistic supervisor who’s really the boss. Parton’s country-pop score includes tunes such as “Backwoods Barbie,” “Shine Like the Sun” and, of course, the energetic title track that topped the Billboard chart in its initial release.
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WHERE & WHEN: The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse in Mount Dora will stage “9 to 5” March 19-April 11, 2027, with the Garden Theatre on Plant in Winter Garden then presenting its production April 15-May 2 — meaning you could see two different versions of the same show in the same week.
INFO: icehousetheatre.com or gardentheatreonplant.com
YOUR SEASON PLANNER
Schedules are subject to change, so always double-check before heading to an event.
ANNIE RUSSELL THEATRE
The theater is on the campus of Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave. in Winter Park. More information: 407-646-2145 or rollins.edu/annie-russell-theatre
THE BOUNDS: Oct. 22-25. In the North American premiere of this comedy from the U.K., the plight of two sidelined English villagers becomes a haunting meditation on power, belonging and the uneasy pull of forces beyond our control. The play poses the question: What happens when we are left watching as history unfolds without us?
ARCADIA: Feb. 25-March 7, 2027. In a marriage of science and art, Tom Stoppard’s great play moves between the Regency era and the present day, tracing a multi-century quest to unravel the mysteries of the universe.
IN THE HEIGHTS: April 15-18, 2027. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical traces the lives and loves of a Latin American immigrant community in New York City.
ART & HISTORY MUSEUMS — MAITLAND
The cultural organization will stage a new play at Timucua Arts Foundation, 2000 S. Summerlin Ave. in Orlando. More information: artandhistory.org
RAINBOW TO YOUR DOOR: Oct. 10-11, 2026. A play by Kenneth Brown tells the story of the lifelong friendship between Maitland Art Center founder Jules André Smith and Eatonville author Zora Neale Hurston, two artists whose bond defied the racial norms of their era.
ATHENS THEATRE
Performances are at 124 N. Florida Ave. in DeLand. More information: 386-736-1500 or athensdeland.com
THE ADDAMS FAMILY: Sept. 18-Oct. 11. The creepy and kooky clan are given the Broadway musical treatment.
A CHRISTMAS STORY: Nov. 20-Dec. 13. The film about Ralphie’s holiday is turned into a musical.
FINDING NEMO JR.: Jan. 22-Feb. 7, 2027. The Disney-Pixar film about a clownfish whose dad travels the ocean to find him.
HONKY TONK ANGELS: Feb. 26-March 21, 2027. Ted Swindley’s musical comedy is stuffed with country hits.
THE WIZARD OF OZ: April 16-May 9, 2027. Dorothy goes over the rainbow in a stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved story.
BAY STREET PLAYERS
Performances are at the State Theatre, 109 N. Bay St. in Eustis. More information: 352-357-7777 or baystreetplayers.org
RENT: Sept. 11-27. Jonathan Larsen’s rock musical follows the lives and loves of a group of Bohemians coping with the AIDS epidemic in 1980s New York City.
CARRIE THE MUSICAL: Oct. 30-Nov. 15. Based on Stephen King’s novel, a misfit high-school girl learns she has extraordinary powers.
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM: Jan. 15-31, 2027. Shakespeare’s romantic comedy of mortals and fairies.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER: April 2-18, 2027. This imaginative comedy creates a backstory for Peter Pan with whimsy and song.
AVENUE Q: June 4-20, 2027. Twenty-somethings learn lessons, “Sesame Street”-style, in this irreverent musical that features puppet cast members.
BREAKTHROUGH THEATRE COMPANY
The theater is at 6900 Aloma Ave. in Winter Park and produces community productions and plays with youth casts. More information: [email protected] or breakthroughtheatre.com
THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW: Sept. 11-28. Superstitious schoolmaster Ichabod
Crane competes for the hand of the wealthy Katrina Van Tassel, while the spooky village of Sleepy Hollow whispers tales of a ghostly Headless Horseman. Adapted by artistic director Wade Hair.
FRUIT PIE — THE UNAUTHORIZED STORY OF ANITA BRYANT: Oct. 9-26. Wade Hair wrote this satirical play, which traces Bryant’s extraordinary rise from beloved singer and television personality to one of the most polarizing figures in American history. Blending humor, music and history, it explores the complicated legacy of fame, faith, family and the lasting consequences of words that continue to echo today.
PUFFS, OR SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC: Nov. 13-30. Matt Cox’s fast-paced comedy reimagines a certain famous wizarding world from the perspective of three ultimate underdogs on the periphery of the narrative of the boy with a lightning-bolt scar.
ANOTHER POLITICALLY INCORRECT CHRISTMAS: Dec. 4-14. More politically incorrect
skits and songs about Christmas.
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK: Jan. 15-Feb. 1, 2027. Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett’s play chronicles the claustrophobic reality of eight people hiding from the Nazis in a concealed Amsterdam attic. At the center is Anne, a fierce, funny and deeply gifted young girl whose vibrant voice continues to shine as a universal beacon of hope, tolerance and courage.
THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE — A REVUE OF ACADEMY AWARD-WINNING SONGS: Feb. 19-March 8, 2027. A revue of Oscar-winning songs.
VOICES FROM THE TRIANGLE SHIRTWAIST FACTORY: March 12-21, 2027. Wade Hair’s play explores the human cost of corporate greed, tracking how one tragic March 1911 afternoon energized the American labor-reform movement and revolutionized ideas about fire safety.
GODSPELL: March 26-April 12, 2027. Based on the Gospel of St. Matthew, this high-energy musical with Stephen Schwartz’s well-known score celebrates the power of community, love and kindness.
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING: May 28-June 14, 2027. In Shakespeare’s comedy, two witty skeptics swear they will never fall in love. Then their friends get involved.
BRIDGE THEATRE
The Bridge Theatre exists to foster acceptance and mutual respect among people, especially young people. More information: thebridgetheatre.org
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK: A one-act version of the story about the teen girl who hid from the Nazis and left her memories in a published diary will be performed for students, accompanied by educational resources designed to encourage discussion about prejudice, courage and the importance of standing up for others. A public performance will take place Sept. 17 at Ocoee High School, 1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway.
I NEVER SAW ANOTHER BUTTERFLY: Feb. 27, 2027, at the Rosen JCC, 11184 S. Apopka-Vineland Road in Orlando. Inspired by the children of the Terezín concentration camp, this production explores hope, resilience and the enduring power of creativity in the face of unimaginable adversity.
ANNE & EMMETT: April 22-25, 2027 at Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave. in Winter Park. This thought-provoking drama imagines a conversation between Anne Frank and Emmett Till, examining the lasting consequences of hatred and discrimination while encouraging audiences to reflect on justice, compassion and our shared humanity.
CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS
The organization, which also has a robust music season and a student theater program, presents two specialty theater troupes that perform in Shaeffer Hall at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1600 S. Orlando Ave. in Winter Park. More information: cfcarts.com
PUMPKINS & PUNCHLINES: Oct. 31-Nov. 1. Stage 55, a seniors troupe, presents a comic and family-friendly Halloween show mixing improv comedy and old-time radio mysteries.
LEGENDARY — STORIES OF THE WORLD: Nov. 21-22. The Upbeat! Theatre Troupe, open to youths and young adults with autism, Down syndrome and other exceptionalities, sing, dance and act their way through reimagined epic tales that teach lessons about friendship and courage.
STAGE 55 SHOW: April 10-11, 2027. The senior troupe returns for another show.
UPBEAT!: May 22-23, 2027. The performers in UpBeat! return for a second show of the season.
CENTRAL FLORIDA VOCAL ARTS
The organization’s Opera del Sol will present an operetta in the spring, detailed in the Music: classical, choral, opera, jazz listings. Its musical-theater offering will be staged in the Pugh Theater of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave. in Orlando. More information: centralfloridavocalarts.org
EVIL DEAD THE MUSICAL: Oct. 2-4. The cult-favorite horror film is turned into a raucous rock musical comedy full of demons, chainsaws and young people who make bad choices.
DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
The center, at 445 S. Magnolia Ave. in Orlando, co-presents Orlando’s touring Broadway season with Florida Theatrical Association and Broadway Across America. More information: 844-513-2014 or drphillipscenter.org
Broadway Series
HAMILTON: Sept. 29-Oct. 18. Lin-Manuel Miranda caught the nation’s attention with his musical retelling of the rise and fall of founding father Alexander Hamilton.
BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB: Oct. 20-25. This vibrant musical, which won Tony Awards for choreography and orchestrations, uses the music of the legendary titular Cuban band to tell the story of a woman instrumental in its founding. The show is inspired by true events and features a dynamic onstage band.
SPAMALOT: Nov. 3-5: This musical adaptation of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” an add-on to the season subscription, tells the story of King Arthur’s medieval knights with tongue firmly in cheek.
DEATH BECOMES HER: Dec. 1-6. Based on the darkly comic movie, this campy musical follows two female frenemies and the man caught between them. As the women vie for the upper hand, they discover a secret potion that grants eternal life … and paves the way for eternal grudges.
WICKED: Jan. 6-31, 2027. In the stage musical that inspired the recent blockbuster two-part movie, also a season add-on, the audience learns the backstory behind the two most powerful witches in the magical land of Oz: Glinda the Good and Elphaba, destined to be tagged as wicked.
THE GREAT GATSBY: Feb. 9-21, 2027. This adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s oft-adapted story brings the Roaring Twenties to life in showstopping numbers. The mysterious Jay Gatsby throws magnificent parties and yearns for a long-lost love. But his secrets lead to tragedy.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC: March 16-21, 2027. Rodgers & Hammerstein’s glorious musical about a spirited Austrian nun who uses music to bring new hope into the lives of a grieving family is set against a backdrop of the rise of Nazism.
BOOP! THE MUSICAL: March 30-April 4, 2027. In this bubbly new musical, cartoon icon Betty Boop comes to life and brings joy to modern times with a romantic adventure.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST: April 20-May 2, 2027. Disney’s “tale as old as time” is back in its first North American touring production in more than 25 years. In an enchanted castle, Belle finds a cursed prince, transformed into a beast, and, with bravery and heart, teaches him to rediscover his humanity.
BEETLEJUICE: May 11-16, 2027. The third and final season add-on is based on the Tim Burton film and tells of an undead entity that upends the life of unusual teenager Lydia Deetz.
JERSEY BOYS: June 22-27, 2027. Winner of the 2006 Best Musical Tony, “Jersey Boys” is on a 20th-anniversary tour as it relates the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, known for hits such as “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh What a Night,” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”
Other stage shows
PAUL STRICKLAND — ALMOST HONEST: Sept. 9. The popular Fringe artist presents a mix of music, comedy and storytelling.
FRINGE FAVORITES: Sept. 10, in the Pugh Theater. Chase Padgett’s “How to Play Guitar (Poorly)” and Emily Fontano’s “Against Her Wishes” receive encores in a double bill. Padgett’s show is a musical comedy about life lessons, while Fontano’s dark comedy is styled as a celebration of life for her late mother.
FAME THE MUSICAL: Sept. 12, in the Pugh Theater. C.W. Productions presents this musical based on the movie and TV show about young dreamers at a school for the arts.
FORGOTTEN BROADWAY: Sept. 29, in Judson’s Live. Improv artists create an original Broadway musical right before the audience’s eyes, incorporating the audience’s suggestions in this comically creative event.
ROCK CAULDRON CABARET: Oct. 7-10, in the Pugh Theater. The Sanderson Sisters of “Hocus Pocus” perform a comic rock concert with parody material.
REDRUM: THE UNAUTHORIZED PARODY MUSICAL OF THE SHINING: Oct. 22-Nov. 1. The classic horror film is spoofed.
THE GOLDEN GIRLS — THE LAUGHS CONTINUE: Nov. 1. Drag artists present an adult spin on the TV sitcom characters with story lines such as Blanche and Rose starting a senior dating app.
THE UNAUTHORIZED HALLMARK(ISH) PARODY MUSICAL: Nov. 25, in the Walt Disney Theater. In this lighthearted show, overworked big-city executive Holly returns to her quirky small hometown to save Christmas and runs into an old flame. Sound familiar? The show spoofs the ubiquitous cable-TV holiday movies.
JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM: Dec. 13, in the Walt Disney Theater. Vocalists, musicians and dancers tell the traditional story of the Nativity in this faith-based theatrical production.
ENCORE PERFORMING ARTS
The organization also presents youth concerts. Its professional theater shows are presented at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave. in Orlando. More information: encorecentral.org
GROUNDHOG DAY: Sept. 18-20, in the arts center’s Pugh Theater. This musical is based on the comedy film about a man forced to relive the same day over and over.
SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL: March 12-21, 2027, in the arts center’s Pugh Theater. Dr. Seuss’s characters and stories come to life in this family-friendly musical.
THE ENSEMBLE COMPANY
This repertory troupe of professional actors is in residence at Imagine Performing Arts Center at Oviedo Mall, 1700 Oviedo Mall Blvd. in Oviedo. More information: theensemblecompany.com
EUREKA DAY: Sept. 4-13. In Jonathan Spector’s comedic play, a progressive school that prides itself on consensus building is plunged into chaos when its vaccination policy leads to a mumps outbreak.
THE PILLOWMAN: Oct. 30-Nov. 8. Martin McDonagh’s dark comedy is set in a dystopian police state, in which a writer is interrogated by the police because his stories about child murder echo a string of real-life killings.
INK: Dec. 4-13. James Graham’s play looks at a brash, young Rupert Murdoch — years before he founded Fox News — as he buys a British newspaper and turns populist journalism into a social and political force.
JOB: Jan. 22-31, 2027. Max Wolf Friedlich’s twisty thriller centers on a tech worker with an emotionally taxing job who’s sent to therapy after an online meltdown.
DANCE NATION: March 5-14, 2027. Female ambition and the pressures of puberty are explored in Clare Barron’s play about a group of young competitive dancers in Ohio.
ARCADIA: April 30-May 9, 2027. With a scientific bent, Tom Stoppard’s classic work spans two eras and explores the gap between knowledge and time.
FRUIT WINE PRODUCTIONS
The company specializes in drag-themed productions. More information: fruitwineproductions.com
HOKUS POKUS LIVE: Nov. 1 at The Plaza Live, 425 N. Bumby St. in Orlando. Drag performers Ginger Minj, Jujube, Sapphira Cristal and Billy Cider spoof Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” in this musical comedy about the Sanderson Sisters.
THE GOLDEN GALS CHRISTMAS MUSICAL LIVE: Dec. 8-9 at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Ave. in Orlando. Drag performers Ginger Minj, Ginger Galore, Mr Ms Adrien and Tugboat headline this affectionate parody of TV’s “Golden Girls,” with holiday songs. Organizers say it is the final time the show will be performed.
GARDEN THEATRE ON PLANT
The city of Winter Garden, in partnership with DNA Productions, presents plays, concerts (see Music: classical, choral, opera, jazz listings) and other entertainment (see Special Events listings) at the theater, 160 W. Plant St. in Winter Garden. More information: gardentheatreonplant.com
Theatrical Series
FOOTLOOSE — THE MUSICAL: Sept. 24-Oct. 11. When a teen moves to a rural town where dancing is banned, he sparks a rebellion.
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE — A LIVE RADIO PLAY: Dec. 10-20. Based on the beloved movie, the stage show tells the story of beleaguered George Bailey and his guardian angel, Clarence, in an imaginative and nostalgic format.
THE 39 STEPS: Jan. 28-Feb. 14, 2027. Four actors play a multitude of characters in this comic take on the Hitchcock thriller about an ordinary man caught up in an international spy conspiracy.
9 TO 5 — THE MUSICAL: April 15-May 2, 2027. Three women get revenge on their sexist boss in this bighearted comedy that features a score by Dolly Parton.
Additional stage shows
HAUNTED ILLUSIONS: Oct. 22. David Caserta blends magical illusions and interactive storytelling in this eerie show.
COME WHAT MAY: Jan. 11-12, 2027. A tribute to Hollywood musicals, including “Moulin Rouge,” “The Greatest Showman,” “Chicago,” “A Star Is Born” and more.
JOSIE & GRACE: March 5-7, 2027. Based on the letters of Josephine Baker and Grace Kelly, this mix of music and storytelling traces the women’s enduring friendship. It was originally presented locally at the 2021 Orlando Fringe Festival.
CELTIC ANGELS IRELAND: March 20, 2027. The celebration of Irish music, dance and culture returns with new songs and dance numbers.
HALF-REMEMBERED NIGHTMARE
Led by Emilie Scheetz, the group debuted its original Disney-spoofing musical at this year’s Orlando Fringe Festival. It will present an encore version at The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive in Orlando. More information: Eventbrite.com
THE SINGLE RIDER SONGBOOK: Sept. 28-30. A newly expanded version of the Fringe Festival hit that lovingly and comically spoofs the Disney life, whether as a cast member or guest, with nods to famous attractions such as the Jungle Cruise, Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean and more.
HIDEAWAY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
The theater is at 431 Plaza Drive in Eustis. It also stages comedy and music events. More information: hideawaypac.com
MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS: Oct. 2-18. This farce somewhat truthfully follows movie moguls David O. Selznick, Victor Fleming and Ben Hecht through a frantic five-day work session as they rewrite the script to “Gone With the Wind” in an attempt to save the film.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: Dec. 4-20. The theater’s annual presentation of the holiday staple about miserly Ebenezer Scrooge’s ghost-filled redemption.
FRIENDS THE MUSICAL PARODY: Feb. 19-March 6, 2027. Bob and Tobly McSmith’s unauthorized spoof lovingly parodies the hit TV sitcom with classic lines, inside jokes and memorable plot points, all set to Assaf Gleizner’s original score.
KONG’S NIGHT OUT: April 30-May 16, 2027. This farce reimagines what really happened the night King Kong climbed the Empire State Building with Fay Wray in tow.
CIVIL WAR VOICES: Aug. 19-29, 2027. James Harris’s musical uses the stories of real people to examine a nation divided.
KANGAGIRL PRODUCTIONS
The theater company will present its tribute to 9-11 in the Mandell Theater at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St. in Orlando. More information: eventbrite.com
THE GUYS: Based on a true story, Anne Nelson’s play follows a journalist and New York City Fire Department captain in the days after the Sept. 11 terror attacks as they recall fallen heroes. As they make their way through the landscape of grief, they draw on humor and an appreciation of the enduring bonds of common humanity. David Lee directs actors Rebecca Fisher and Joe Swanberg.
LITTLE RADICAL THEATRICS
The all-ages community theater presents its productions in the Pugh Theater of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave. in Orlando. More information: littleradicaltheatricsinc.com
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN: Nov. 19-21. Mel Brooks’ comic spoof of monster movies gets the musical treatment.
LITTLE THEATRE OF NEW SMYRNA BEACH
The theater is at 723 E. 3rd Ave. in New Smyrna Beach. More information: 386-423-1246 or nsbplayers.org
DEATHTRAP: Through Sept. 6. A thriller that combines illicit love and murder.
JEKYLL & HYDE: Oct. 8-25. Musical based on the famous tale of one man’s experiment on the duality of good and evil.
MISS BENNETT — CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY: Dec. 3-13. A romantic and sweetly comic holiday spinoff of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.”
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SEX PLEASE, WE’RE SIXTY: Jan. 13-24, 2027. Set at a cozy New England bed-and-breakfast, this farce pokes fun at aging, romance and desire.
BROADWAY AT THE BEACH: Jan. 28-31, 2027. Annual musical revue of Broadway numbers.
COMPANY: Feb. 25-March 14, 2027. With a Stephen Sondheim score, this musical centers on Bobby — perpetually single amid all his married friends.
TWELFTH NIGHT: April 15-25, 2027. Shakespeare’s comedy about a shipwrecked twin who disguises herself and ignites a love triangle amidst mistaken identities.
MELON PATCH PLAYERS
Performances are at the Tropic Theater, 122 W. Main St. in Leesburg. More information: 352-787-3013 or melonpatchplayers.org
REHEARSAL FOR MURDER: Through Sept. 6. A group of actors reunites a year after the murder of one of their cast mates in this thriller.
EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD: Dec. 4-20. Three performers take a merry romp through familiar and beloved holiday tales such as “Frosty the Snowman” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” in this fast-paced comedy.
PETER PAN GOES WRONG: Jan. 22-Feb. 7, 2027. A community theater’s production of “Peter Pan” turns into a disaster in this farce.
CLUE: March 12-28, 2027. Based on the board game and subsequent movie, this show finds no lack of suspects when a murder takes place on a dark and stormy night.
PICTURES FROM HOME: April 30-May 16, 2027. Shar White’s gentle play, which had a Broadway run, presents an intimate and comic portrait of a mother, a father and their son.
NO EXIT: June 11-27, 2027. Jean-Paul Sartre’s famous philosophical work finds two women and a man locked up together for eternity in one hideous room in Hell. But it’s not the surroundings that make it unbearable.
NEW GENERATION THEATRICAL
The company produces plays and other theatrical events in its space at Orlando Fashion Square, 3201 E. Colonial Drive. More information: newgentheatrical.org
FUGITIVE SONGS: Sept. 18-21. Chris Miller and Nathan Tysen’s 19-song journey across America captures the spirit of a restless nation. Half musical, half hootenanny, the show spotlights people on the run: a disgruntled Subway sandwich employee, a jilted ex-cheerleader, a pair of Patty Hearst fanatics and many others, all played by a cast of six.
CRACKING OPEN A COLD ONE: Sept. 26. An ensemble of Orlando actors and writers abandon rules and processes to deliver fresh, 10-minute plays created less than a day before — and all driven by plot twists from social media submissions.
‘WOMEN AREN’T FUNNY’ — A NIGHT OF FEMPROV: Oct. 17. Five Orlando female improv artists take the stage — and don’t worry, men, there’s a token male performing, to see what it’s like when the shoe is on the other foot.
ORLANDO FAMILY STAGE
Performances of shows for children and their families are in the theater’s complex at 1001 E. Princeton St. in Orlando. The theater also offers productions and experiences for the very young, presents shows featuring student performers through its Youth Academy, and produces the Florida Children’s Book Fair, detailed in the Special Events listings. Its professional productions are listed below. More information: 407-896-7365 or orlandofamilystage.com
HAVANA HOP: Sept. 17-19. An interactive touring production that celebrates young Yeila’s Cuban heritage through hip-hop and salsa, this show is written and performed by Paige Hernandez, who wrote last season’s stage adaptation of “Tiara’s Hat Parade.”
THE BEST HALLOWEEN EVER: Oct. 5-Nov. 1. The unforgettable Herdman siblings of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” — known as “the worst kids in the history of the world” — are back in this world premiere of a new adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s novel by Jahnna Beecham and Skye Hillgartner.
A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS — LIVE ON STAGE: Nov. 16-Dec. 27. Orlando Family Stage adds live music this year as the Peanuts gang learns the true meaning of the holidays.
PETE THE CAT’S BIG HOLLYWOOD ADVENTURE: Feb. 1-28, 2027. This rock-and-roll musical finds Pete and pal Callie lost in a movie studio with dinosaurs, robots and a treasure map. The show, based on children’s book characters, features songs by Tony Award winner Will Aronson (“Maybe Happy Ending”).
THE HOBBIT: March 6-28, 2027. With music, this adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s story finds Bilbo Baggins embarking on a magical, mystical adventure.
DRAGONS LOVE TACOS 2 — THE MU(SEQUEL): April 5-May 9, 2027. When the world’s taco supply disappears, Robbie, Kodi and their dragon friends embark on a comic time-traveling adventure filled with music, imagination and, of course, tacos. The show is also based on popular children’s book characters.
ORLANDO FRINGE
The organization’s annual signature festival is centered at Loch Haven Park each May. More information: 407-648-0077 or orlandofringe.org
ORLANDO OUTFEST: Sept. 10-13, at various Orlando venues including the Renaissance Theatre, 415 E. Princeton St.; Savoy Orlando at 1913 N. Orange Ave.; and The Center Orlando, 946 N. Mills Ave. More than 20 shows, films and events featuring work by LGBTQ+ artists.
WINTER MINI-FEST: Jan 6-10, 2027, at Orlando Family Stage, 1001 E. Princeton St. A curated short-theater festival of fan favorites from the 2026 Fringe, along with new works and shows by new artists from the international Fringe Festival circuit.
36TH ANNUAL ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL FRINGE FESTIVAL: May 18-31, 2027. Two weeks of live theater, comedy, music, dance, magic, storytelling, art and more. The nation’s longest-running Fringe fest also features food trucks, free outdoor performances, free children’s programming and pop-up performances.
ORLANDO SHAKES
Performances are staged at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St. in Orlando. The theater also offers a concert series, with details in the Music: classical, choral, opera, jazz listing. More information: 407-447-1700 or orlandoshakes.org
Signature Series
COME FROM AWAY: Aug. 26-Sept. 27. This musical takes a poignant and funny look at the kindness of strangers in the aftermath of the 9-11 attacks.
DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS: Sept. 23-Nov. 8. This fast-paced and irreverent show is a gender-bending, quick-change comedy about Bram Stoker’s infamous vampire.
RICHARD III: THE BOTTLED SPIDER: Jan. 13-24, 2027. Shakespeare tracks the scheming King Richard III’s rise and fall as the theater’s “Fire and Reign” saga of British monarchs comes to a close. The production will be staged with limited rehearsal time for the actors, no designers and no director, as it would have been prepared by the acting companies of Shakespeare’s time.
AS YOU LIKE IT: Feb. 17-March 14, 2027. In Shakespeare’s comedy, Rosalind escapes to Arden Forest, where she disguises herself as a man and finds love with Orlando — the character, not our fair city.
THE MOUNTAINTOP: March 17-April 18, 2027. In this riveting contemporary drama, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. meets an intriguing hotel housekeeper on a fateful night in his life.
Add-on
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: Nov. 25-Dec. 24. Artistic director Jim Helsinger’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ holiday ghost story of Ebeneezer Scrooge’s redemption is presented annually by the theater.
Children’s series
CORDUROY: Oct. 14-Nov. 8. The lovable titular teddy bear, from the book by John Freeman, has a rollicking adventure.
IF YOU GIVE A MOUSE A COOKIE: April 7-May 8, 2027. Laura Numeroff’s book about a hungry rodent who turns a house upside down takes the stage.
Festival
PLAYFEST: Oct. 30-Nov. 1 & Nov. 6-8. The annual festival of new works returns for two dynamic weekends of readings, workshops and conversations with playwrights from across the country.
PHANTASMAGORIA ORLANDO
The Victorian steampunk troupe uses storytelling, dance, puppetry, projections and original music in performances around Central Florida and beyond. More information: phantasmagoriaorlando.com
PHANTASMAGORIA XVII — FRANKENSTEIN: Oct. 1-2 (Clermont), Oct. 3 (State Theatre in Eustis), Oct. 11 (Ocala Civic Theatre in Ocala), Oct. 16-18 (Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando), Oct. 24 (Athens Theatre in DeLand), Oct. 30 (News Journal Center in Daytona Beach). The troupe celebrates the birth of horror on June 16, 1816 — when Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” took shape, along with John Polidori’s “The Vampyre” and other tales of fright during a challenge to concoct a scary story.
PAPERMAP THEATER & CO.
This company produces community productions in its black-box theater at 2 N. Summerlin Ave., Suite 2, in Orlando. Many of the productions also have a youth version that is performed after the all-ages run. More information: papermaptheater.com
YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU: Sept. 18–27. The Pulitzer Prize-winning comedy focuses on the gloriously eccentric Sycamore family, makers of fireworks.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: Nov. 13-Dec. 13. This brand-new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ story is staged with live carols, a particular focus on Marley’s last act to help Scrooge see that it’s never too late to change for the better, and a lantern-lit finale.
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ: Jan. 28-Feb. 7, 2027. An original adaptation drawn from L. Frank Baum’s novel takes audiences over the rainbow.
STEEL MAGNOLIAS: Feb. 26–March 7, 2027. Robert Harling’s beloved portrait of friendship, grief and laughter is set in a Louisiana beauty shop, where women find strength and camaraderie with one another.
LITTLE WOMEN: April 8–18, 2027. This original adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel follows the March sisters through love, loss, creativity and ambition.
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK: May 14–23, 2027. The landmark play receives a spare staging in which the theater itself becomes the annex in which young Anne, her family and others hid from the Nazis.
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM: July 8-18, 2027. Shakespeare’s comedy of lovers, fairies and amateur actors becomes a handmade midsummer forest of puppetry, music and lantern light.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST: Aug. 12-22, 2027. Oscar Wilde’s flawless comedy exposes double lives, tea trays and one formidable handbag as he skewers British morals.
RENAISSANCE THEATRE COMPANY
The theater is at 415 E. Princeton St. in Orlando. More information: rentheatre.com
NOSFERATU: Sept 5-Nov. 7. An adult vampire-themed immersive experience that combines theater and dance as patrons roam a haunted house-like setting. Each year, the experience changes with new sets and concepts.
THE OFFICE HOLIDAY PARTY MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA SHOW: Dec 3-21. Meet up with your workplace “colleagues” at this adult musical comedy featuring an eccentric group of employees getting into a festive mood.
Special event
THE REN GALA: Sept. 22, at The Plaza Live, 425 N. Bumby Ave. in Orlando. Music, food, drinks and fun, with appearances by Tony-nominated Broadway star Megan Hilty, who will perform, and drag star Shea Couleé.
RITZ THEATER
The theater, at 201 S. Magnolia Ave. in Sanford, hosts touring concerts, children’s productions and other events in addition to plays. More information: 407-321-8111 or ritztheatersanford.com
DEAR EVAN HANSEN: Oct. 2-11. An awkward teenager’s lie spirals out of control in this musical about belonging and redemption.
CLUE: March 5-14, 2027. Suspects abound when there’s a murder in this mystery-comedy based on the classic board game and cult-favorite film.
THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME: April 30-May 9, 2027. A Gypsy, a soldier, a cleric and a wide-eyed bell-ringer find their fates intertwined in this musical based on the Disney movie and Victor Hugo’s novel.
SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE
Productions take place in Le Petit Theatre, Building B, Room 127 at Seminole State College, 100 Weldon Blvd. in Sanford. More information: seminolestate.edu/arts/events/theatre
LEADING LADIES: Nov. 6-15. In Ken Ludwig’s comedy, set in 1958, two struggling actors become entangled in romantic chaos while impersonating a wealthy woman’s long-lost nieces in hopes of claiming a fortune.
SONNENTAG THEATRE AT THE ICEHOUSE
The theater is at 1100 N. Unser St. in Mount Dora. More information: 352-383-4616 or icehousetheatre.com
BLITHE SPIRIT: Sept. 11-Oct. 4. A capricious ghost startles her still-living husband at a seance … and then won’t leave in Noel Coward’s comedy.
HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING: Nov 13-Dec. 13. A humble window washer learns the tricks of climbing to the top of the corporate ladder and finds love along the way in this classic musical comedy.
TWENTIETH CENTURY: Jan. 15-Feb. 7, 2027. In 1933, a bankrupt theater director meets a Hollywood star aboard a train and promises to make her the toast of Broadway.
9 TO 5 — THE MUSICAL: March 19-April 11, 2027. Based on the comedy film and featuring a score by Dolly Parton, this musical follows three female office workers who show their chauvinist-pig of a boss what girl power really looks like.
CHAPTER TWO: May 14-June 6, 2027. In Neil Simon’s comedy, lonely widower George discovers a second chance at love is not without bumps when he meets recently divorced Jennie.
THEATER WEST END
The theater is at 115 W. First St. in Sanford. More information: 407-548-6285 or theaterwestend.com
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED): Through Sept. 13. This fast-paced, comedic romp through Shakespeare’s works condenses all 37 into one whirlwind performance.
JEKYLL & HYDE: Oct. 2-25. Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of a man cursed with an evil alter ego comes to life in this musical adaptation.
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS: Nov. 20-Dec. 20. Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins share holiday tunes and stories.
THEATRE SOUTH PLAYHOUSE
The theater, in the Dr. Phillips Marketplace at 7601 Della Drive in Orlando, produces shows featuring professional adult actors as well as community and youth productions. More information: 407-489-4458 or theatresouthplayhouse.org
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS: Sept. 18-Oct. 4. The campy horror comedy about a human-eating plant and the nerdy florist’s assistant who feeds him.
MATILDA THE MUSICAL: Nov. 6-Dec. 5. A little girl has extraordinary powers and finds her voice with the help of a kindly teacher in this musical based on Roald Dahl’s story.
RIDE THE CYCLONE: Jan. 15-25, 2027. Back for another spin, this ongoing production at the theater is an offbeat musical about a group of teens who learn what’s important in life — after they’ve died.
RUMORS: Feb. 12-28, 2027. Neil Simon’s farce about a high-society anniversary party gone comically wrong.
THEATRE UCF
Productions are in the university’s Black Box or Main Stage theater, on the campus of the University of Central Florida in east Orange County. More information: 407-823-1500 or theatreucf.edu
THE HATMAKER’S WIFE: Sept. 24-Oct. 4, Black Box. A young woman moves in with her boyfriend, full of hope for a fairytale existence — but talking walls soon reveal the lives of a previous couple who once called the apartment home. Lauren Yee’s play magically redefines family and true love.
GODSPELL: Oct. 15-25, Main Stage. St. Matthew’s Gospel inspires this look at Jesus and his teachings, with a score of Stephen Schwartz hits such as “Day by Day,” “All Good Gifts” and “By My Side.”
BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY: Nov. 12-22, Black Box. Pearl Cleage weaves iconic history into the everyday lives of five characters as audiences follow their aspirations and hardships over the course of one summer in 1930s Harlem.
TWELFTH NIGHT: Jan. 28-Feb. 7, 2027, Main Stage. Shakespeare’s romantic comedy features mistaken identity, love and chaos.
THIS GIRL LAUGHS, THIS GIRL CRIES, THIS GIRL DOES NOTHING: Feb. 25-28, 2027, Black Box. Led by the students of UCF’s Theatre for Young Audiences program, this production explores the bond of sisterhood through Finegan Kruckemeyer’s fantastical story for theatergoers of all ages.
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN: April 15-18, 2027 in the Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Ave. in Orlando. Mel Brooks’ parody of classic horror films turns the Frankenstein story on its head.
VALENCIA COLLEGE
Productions take place at Valencia’s east campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail in Orlando. More information: 407-582-29 or valenciacollege.edu/arts
BLOODY BLODDY ANDREW JACKSON: Oct. 15-18. This satirical, emo-rock musical reimagines the nation’s seventh president as a charismatic, angst-ridden rock star. It uses the framework of 19th-century history to explore the dangerous allure of American populism, political compromise and the violent expansion of the United States.
TOO MUCH LIGHT MAKES THE BABY GO BLIND: Feb. 12-20, 2027. In this selection of neo-futurist plays by Greg Allen, 12 actors present 30 plays in 60 minutes, with the audience selecting which plays will be performed each night and in what order. Part improv and part truth-telling, this guerrilla-style experiment produces a different show each night.
THE 39 STEPS: April 2-10, 2027. Patrick Barlow spoofs John Buchan’s novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller of a movie, turning the adventure into a madcap farce.
STUDENT-DIRECTED ONE ACTS: April 16-17, 2027. Part of the Florida Playwrights’ Competition.
WHISKEY THEATRE FACTORY
The group performs at Imagine Performing Arts Center at Oviedo Mall, unless otherwise noted. More information: whiskeytheatrefactory.com
THE LAMB: Oct. 9. Staged reading of Alexia Orban’s political drama, set in 1990s Peru amid the backdrop of civic unrest as a result of the “Atlántico” scandal. In the play, the family of a politician comes to grips with the reality that nothing is sacred.
TESEOS VOLVIDO: Feb. 19-27, 2027. Workshop production of Max Pinksy’s trilingual sequel to his “La Medea.” The story follows Medéa, the infamous mother and murderess, as she has begins anew in Santo Domingo. A mysterious stranger returns when tragedy strikes, but nothing can hold
back how fiercely Medéa will protect her new life. The show is performed in a combination of English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.
DIVIDED: March 20, 2027. This staged reading of Ashley Alonso’s psychological thriller centers on Alex, a woman who has begun the process of deconstruction under the advisement of her therapist, Dr. Glasgow. But when a masked woman torments Alex and the line between dreams and reality blurs, will friends and chosen family be enough to help her save herself?
ANNUAL 1-MINUTE PLAY FEST: April 9, 2027.
WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE
The theater is at 711 N. Orange Ave. in Winter Park. More information: 407-645-0145 or winterparkplayhouse.org
THE RAT PACK LOUNGE: Sept. 25-Oct. 18. God sends Frank, Dean and Sammy back to Earth for one night to fulfill their promise to the owner of the Rat Pack Lounge in this musical comedy by James Hindman and Ray Roderick. The show features the Rat Pack’s greatest hits, arranged by John Glaudini, including “My Way,” “Come Fly With Me,” “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head,” “Everybody Loves Somebody” and more.
A CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE: Nov. 20-Dec. 20. Also from Hindman, Roderick and Glaudini, this light-hearted musical comedy finds its characters searching for the true meaning of the season with tunes both familiar and new.
NOW COMES THE FUN PART: THE “HOW THE #@&! DID I GET THIS OLD?” MUSICAL: Jan. 22-Feb. 14, 2027. Hindman and Lynne Halliday created this comic look at the indignities of aging. Jeffrey Lodin and Mark Waldrop wrote the songs. The Winter Park Playhouse production is the show’s southeastern regional premiere.
ALL HANDS ON DECK: March 12-April 11, 2027. Jody Madaras wrote this show celebrating swing, big bands and the music of the 1940s. Based on Bob Hope’s 1942 USO tour to entertain the troops, the show features Broadway-style tap dancing, heart-warming harmonies, classic radio commercials and a sing-along.
SISTER AMNESIA’S COUNTRY WESTERN NUNSENSE JAMBOREE: May 7-30, 2027. Dan Goggins’ wacky “Nunsense” sisters return. When Sister Mary Amnesia realizes she is actually a former country singer, Reverend Mother gets her a recording contract and a national tour.
Monthly cabarets
PATRECE BLOOMFIELD: Sept. 9-10. In “Looking Back & Moving Forward,” Bloomfield performs classical, jazz and Broadway tunes.
RUSSELL GRADY STEPHENS: Oct. 7-8. The singer offers an evening of stories and song.
Special events
CURTAIN’S UP: Nov. 7. Food, drink and entertainment to celebrate the theater.
FESTIVAL OF NEW MUSICALS: June 17-20, 2027. New works in progress are read to get audience feedback.
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— Listings compiled by Matthew J. Palm