Philadelphia’s renowned Wilma Theater has announced an ambitious lineup for its upcoming 2025-26 season, featuring a blend of dynamic productions that aim to explore and interrogate the American experience as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.
Among the highlights is the theater’s first-ever all-ages production, which promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
In addition, the season will also see the return of a popular dance-theater cabaret show, as well as back-to-back plays by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwrights, spanning thematic landscapes such as justice, freedom, identity, and legacy.
The Wilma is committed to fostering creativity and collaboration, providing audiences with unique opportunities to witness the progression of works as they develop from script to stage through limited presentations.
Early Bird Subscriptions for the 2025-26 season start at an affordable $100 for all four productions, available until June 29.
Kicking off the season, the Wilma will present an all-ages production of Evgeny Schwartz’s adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale, “The Snow Queen.”
Directed by Co-Artistic Director Yury Urnov, this enchanting story will run from November 11 to November 25, with the opening night set for Friday, November 14, at 7 p.m.
“The Snow Queen” tells the story of a young girl named Gerda, who embarks on a fantastical adventure through icy landscapes and mystical realms, confronting the complexities of love, loss, and the human spirit as she strives to rescue her brother.
This heartwarming narrative promises to resonate with both children and adults alike, reminding audiences of the magic found in love and friendship.
Following “The Snow Queen,” the audience will be treated to “Poor Judge,” a dance-theater cabaret produced by the acclaimed Pig Iron Theatre Company.
Created from an original idea by Dito Van Reigersberg and directed by Eva Steinmetz, this production is set for January 13 to 25, 2026, with its opening night on Friday, January 16 at 7 p.m.
Rooted in the music of alt-rock artist Aimee Mann, “Poor Judge” weaves a complex narrative that combines elements of a spy story, a poignant tale of lost love, and a Hollywood audition.
This unique performance, characterized by vignettes and live music, will explore themes of ambition and the seductive allure of Los Angeles, giving glimpses into the darker sides of the American Dream.
In March, the season will continue with “The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington,” written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright James Ijames.
Under the direction of Brett Ashley Robinson, this powerful production runs from March 17 to April 5, with the opening night scheduled for Wednesday, March 27, at 7 p.m.
Set on Martha Washington’s deathbed, the play offers a provocative exploration of race, power, and historical memory as she faces a hallucinatory trial regarding her legacy and the enslaved people awaiting freedom at her passing.
This poignant satire is expected to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences, using humor and striking imagery to tackle complex social issues.
As the season culminates, the Wilma will present “The America Play” by Suzan-Lori Parks.
Directed by Lindsay Smiling, this thought-provoking production is set for May 19 to May 31, with the opening night on Friday, May 22, at 7 p.m.
The play features a character known as the Foundling Father, a Black Abraham Lincoln impersonator who operates a tourist attraction called “the Great Hole of History” where visitors can encounter historical figures.
Through its poetic structure and jazz-infused language, “The America Play” confronts the recurring themes and toxic ideologies embedded in American history, urging audiences to reflect on the meaning of being American in the current political climate.
Throughout the season, many roles will be filled by members of the Wilma’s award-winning HotHouse Acting Company.
This talented resident acting collective meets weekly to hone their skills, read plays, and collaborate on artistic projects, making significant contributions to the productions of the season.
Two members of the HotHouse will take on directing roles in 2026, furthering the theater’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
In addition to these main productions, audiences can look forward to a limited presentation of a new work titled “JURY DUTY,” co-created by Milo Cramer and Morgan Green.
This development initiative reflects the Wilma’s dedication to providing platforms for emerging art and fresh narratives that engage with contemporary issues.
With a season full of passion, innovation, and critical reflections on American culture, the Wilma Theater is poised to welcome audiences for a transformative experience in 2025-26.
Mark your calendars and consider subscribing to take part in this exceptional lineup!
image source from：https://www.broadwayworld.com/philadelphia/article/THE-SNOW-QUEEN-and-More-Set-for-The-Wilma-Theater-2025-26-Season-20250617
