For fans of musical theater, there’s much to look forward to with Lyric Stage’s upcoming 2025-2026 season.
The Dallas-based theater company, renowned for its dedication to the development and preservation of musicals, has announced a diverse lineup of five productions, each promising to delight audiences.
Scott Guenther, the Managing & Co-Artistic Director of Lyric Stage, shared insights into the programming process.
“We wanted to program shows that fit our purpose, but also, we felt would please the patrons,” Guenther explained.
“We pick our shows by working with our directors and music directors. They submit their favorites, and then we work out a season that fits our company.”
Before venturing into the new season, Lyric Stage will conclude its current lineup with the classic musical, Guys and Dolls, a collaborative production with the Turtle Creek Chorale.
This beloved musical, based on a story by Damon Runyon, features lyrics by Frank Loesser and a book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows.
It boasts a remarkable cast of over 140 performers alongside a large orchestra, including the Grammy-nominated Stockton Helbing Band.
Running for just one weekend, from August 15 to 17, at the Moody Performance Hall in the Dallas Arts District, Guys and Dolls promises to be a spectacular finale to the season.
Guenther invites audiences to experience this production, saying, “We have many wonderfully talented performers and musicians who will make this show one not to be missed.”
The excitement continues in October when the new season kicks off with The Rocky Horror Picture Show, showcasing at Lyric Stage Studio from October 10 to 26.
This cult classic, featuring music, lyrics, and book by Richard O’Brien, tells the story of sweethearts Brad and Janet, who, stranded with a flat tire during a storm, stumble upon the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter.
Their adventure leads them through a whirlwind of strange characters and bizarre happenings, culminating in Frank-N-Furter unveiling his latest creation, a muscular man named “Rocky.”
Guenther shared his enthusiasm for reviving this popular production, stating, “We produced this show a couple of years ago, and it sold great. It will pull in both younger and middle-aged audiences, but that said, some of our older patrons are very excited to see the show too.”
As the holiday season approaches, Lyric Stage will treat audiences to Forever Plaid – Plaid Tidings by Stuart Ross, running from December 5 to December 21 at Lyric Stage Studio.
This festive production sees the return of beloved characters Francis, Jinx, Smudge, and Sparky as they aim to spread harmony during the chaotic holiday season, prompted by a heavenly call from Rosemary Clooney.
The show promises to be a delightful blend of holiday cheer, including favorites like their three-minute and eleven-second rendition of The Ed Sullivan Show, featuring iconic characters such as the Rockettes and The Vienna Boys Choir.
Guenther notes the charm of this family-friendly production, explaining, “Plaid Tidings is a lighthearted and fun family holiday show.
We all love to see A Christmas Carol, but it’s a heavy and dark show, and some of us don’t need more darkness at the holidays.
We are also hoping this might become a tradition.”
Following the holiday spirit, audiences can look forward to Dallas Divas, a vibrant celebration of local talent, on February 11 at the Moody Performance Hall.
This unique musical experience pays tribute to some of the finest voices in Dallas, featuring a mix of Broadway hits and popular songs, along with possible surprise guests.
Guenther remarked on the significance of this performance, saying, “Lyric has produced these concerts many times over the years.
They are a great way to showcase local talent from a variety of shows without producing the entire musical.
Audiences love a good cabaret show.”
As spring blooms, Lyric Stage will present Sweet Charity from April 17 to May 3 at Lyric Stage Studio.
Inspired by Federico Fellini’s Night of Cabiria, this musical follows the tumultuous love life of Charity Hope Valentine, a hopelessly romantic dance hall hostess navigating her way through New York City.
Featuring a lively 1960s score by Cy Coleman and a humorous book by Neil Simon, Sweet Charity is a celebration of optimism and resilience amidst life’s challenges.
Fans of the show can look forward to beloved tunes like “Big Spender” and “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” all part of the original Broadway production.
Finally, the season will culminate with the poignant musical Little Women, scheduled for July 17 to August 2 at Lyric Stage Studio.
Adapted from Louisa May Alcott’s treasured novel, this production brings to life the experiences of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March, their dreams, heartaches, and journeys through the trials of growing up during the Civil War era.
The powerful narratives of the final two musicals emphasize strong female characters.
Guenther expressed his belief in the importance of these stories, stating, “Both stories are about powerful women that make their way through the trials of life and come out on top.
Charity is a great story and a real classic.
Little Women is one of my favorite musicals personally.
It has an uplifting and fun story with a beautiful score.
If you didn’t know it was not a golden age musical, you might think it was one.”
This upcoming season promises to resonate with audiences, bringing them beloved tales and unforgettable music.
Guenther concluded, “This season is full but obtainable. We are excited to do work we think the patrons will truly love.”
Fans of the stage won’t want to miss this remarkable lineup at Lyric Stage.
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