Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts in Kenner, LA, is bringing a spectacular lineup of shows that promises to captivate audiences with cherished tales and musical delights. With a mix of classic narratives reimagined and original stories that will inspire, this season features everything from a New Orleans take on 'It's a Wonderful Life' to the roller-skating dynamism of 'Xanadu' and the hilarious antics of 'Something Rotten'. Whether you're in the mood for a holiday classic, a nostalgic musical, or a comedic romp, Rivertown's 2024-2025 season offers something for everyone.

Rivertown Theaters: A Spectacular Season of Timeless Tales and Musical Marvels

Step into an extraordinary theatrical experience in 2025 at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts in Kenner, LA. This year, audiences are treated to a dynamic lineup featuring the roller-skating musical adventure 'Xanadu', the whimsical 'Once Upon a Mattress', the Renaissance comedy 'Something Rotten!', and the heartwarming 'Annie, the Musical'. Each performance offers a unique blend of comedy, romance, and ambition, brought to life by talented artists and musicians, ensuring an unforgettable journey through song, dance, and storytelling.

Unveiling Rivertown Theaters: A Year of Musical Marvels in 2025

Step into a world where the quirks of Renaissance theater meet the optimism of 1930s New York City. Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts invites you to witness two distinct yet equally captivating productions: 'Something Rotten', a musical comedy taking you back to the 1590s where Shakespearean antics are turned on their head, and 'Annie, the Musical', a heartwarming tale of an orphan’s journey to find family and hope. Both promise laughter, inspiration, and unforgettable performances.

A Theatrical Renaissance: Experiencing 'Something Rotten' and 'Annie' at Rivertown Theaters

Step into the realm of Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts in 2025, where the past meets the present through two spectacular musical productions. 'Something Rotten' takes us back to the 1590s with brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom as they strive to outshine Shakespeare, while 'Annie, the Musical' transports us to 1930s New York City with the determined orphan, Annie. These performances promise to deliver humor, heart, and the timeless magic of live theater, captivating audiences of all ages.

A Theatrical Renaissance: Exploring Rivertown Theaters' 2025 Lineup

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts is set to captivate audiences with a season brimming with humor, music, and nostalgia. This year's lineup includes the raucous 'Something Rotten!' and the heartwarming 'Annie, the Musical.' Spanning the Renaissance farce of the Bottom brothers' quest to create the world's first musical to Annie's adventures in Depression-era New York, these productions promise to deliver unforgettable experiences. With contributions from Grammy-winning and acclaimed artists, these presentations celebrate the enduring power of storytelling through musical theater.

Rivertown Theaters Unveils a Season of Laughter and Heart with 'Something Rotten!' and 'Annie, the Musical'

With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations... and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

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Annie, the Musical

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts

Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as "The Bard." When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical. But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being true to thine own self, and all that jazz.

Something Rotten

Welcome to the Renaissance and the outrageous, crowd-pleasing musical farce, Something Rotten. Created by Grammy Award-winning songwriter Wayne Kirkpatrick, and successful screenwriters Karey Kirkpatrick and John O’Farrell, Something Rotten was lauded by audience members and critics alike, receiving several Best Musical nominations and hailed by Time Out New York as "the funniest musical comedy in at least 400 years"

Something Rotten!

Many moons ago in a far-off place, Queen Aggravain decreed no couples could marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, found a bride. Princesses came from far and wide to win the hand of the prince, but none could pass the impossible tests given to them by the Queen. That is, until the “shy” swamp princess, Winnifred the Woebegone, showed up. Would she be able to pass the Sensitivity Test, marry her prince and help Lady Larken and Sir Harry to the altar? Carried on a wave of wonderful songs, by turns hilarious and raucous, romantic and melodic, this rollicking spin on the classic tale The Princess and the Pea provides some side-splitting shenanigans. For after all, a princess is a delicate thing.

Once Upon a Mattress

This Tony Award-nominated, hilarious, roller skating, musical adventure about following your dreams despite the limitations others set for you, rolls along to the original hit score composed by pop-rock legends, Jeff Lynne and John Farrar. Based on the Universal Pictures cult classic movie of the same title, which starred Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, Xanadu is hilarity on wheels for adults, children and anyone who has ever wanted to feel inspired.

Xanadu

It’s the Holiday classic – New Orleans style!   It’s Christmas time in New Orleans and George Bailey is saved by the love and support of his friends and family, with a little heavenly assistance.  This classic story is now told with the humor and warmth of true New Orleans characters.  Written by Ricky Graham, it's a home grown holiday show for the whole family!

It's a Wonderful Life, Y'all

Junie B. Jones, First-Grader, is super-excited about the upcoming Holiday Sing-Along and Secret Santa gift exchange at her school. Too bad tattletale May keeps ruining all of Junie B.'s fun. So when Junie B. draws May's name for Secret Santa, she comes up with the perfect plan to teach her nemesis a lesson! But will the Christmas spirit of peace and goodwill interfere before she can give you-know-who what she deserves? A hilarious and endearing tale based on the best-selling book series by Barbara Park.

Junie B Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Based on Lloyd Kaufman's cult film and winner of the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical, The Toxic Avenger is a charming love story and laugh-out-loud musical that has it all: an unlikely hero, his beautiful girlfriend, a corrupt New Jersey mayor and two guys who play... well, everyone else ... bullies, mobsters, old ladies and stiletto-wearing back up singers.  With book and lyrics by Joe DiPietro and music and lyrics by David Bryan, the show also features the most memorable and unbelievable duet you'll ever see on any stage.

The Toxic Avenger

It's 1962 in Baltimore, and the lovable plus-size teen, Tracy Turnblad, has only one desire – to dance on the popular "Corny Collins Show." When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob, Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network... all without denting her 'do!

Hairspray

Pageant is a hilarious pageant, played out in real time. Judges selected from the audience actually vote and determine the winner who, therefore, may be different at each performance. The show takes its shots not by mocking the proceedings from the outside, but by being an authentic pageant itself. The six female contestants compete for the title of Miss Glamouresse (named for a fictional cosmetics company). Miss Deep South, Miss West Coast, Miss Great Plains, Miss Bible Belt, Miss Industrial Northeast and Miss Texas compete in evening gown, talent, swimwear and spokesmodeling events, and the finalists answer actual calls from the Glamouresse Beauty Crisis Hotline. Did we mention the contestants are played by men?  A campy and uproarious take on a uniquely American concept, Pageant is 90 minutes of non-stop fun.

Pageant

A high-energy and hilarious Broadway adaptation of the hit 2004 film. The show delves into the perilous world of high school cliques and the challenges of fitting in. It follows Cady Heron, a teenager who moves from Africa to the cutthroat social hierarchy of an American high school. As she navigates the treacherous dynamics led by the infamous "Plastics," Cady learns important lessons about loyalty, friendship, and staying true to oneself. With catchy pop-infused songs, clever lyrics, and witty dialogue, "Mean Girls" captures the zeitgeist of teenage life while offering a witty and satirical commentary on the damaging effects of bullying and societal pressures. This musical spectacle delivers a relatable and empowering message about embracing individuality and kindness.

Mean Girls

An Irish Channel Grammaw discovers a recipe to fill all the potholes in New Orleans! But will her plans be foiled by her old high school nemesis? Find out in this new New Orleans Musical Comedy filled with crazy characters, a talking dog, lots of laughs and nostalgia for the whole family.

Grammaw and the Magic Goo

A heartwarming and uplifting Broadway musical that combines catchy tunes, dazzling choreography, and a message of acceptance and inclusivity. The show follows a group of self-absorbed Broadway stars who, in their quest for positive publicity, decide to champion a small-town high school student who is forbidden to attend prom. As they embark on their mission, the characters experience personal growth, confront their own biases, and learn the true meaning of empathy and friendship. With its infectious music, clever humor, and poignant themes, "The Prom" serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love, compassion, and standing up for what is right.

The Prom

A spirited and joyous Broadway production that brings the beloved 1992 film to life on stage. The show follows the hilarious and heartwarming journey of Deloris Van Cartier, a nightclub singer who witnesses a crime and is placed in protective custody in a convent. As she adapts to her new surroundings, Deloris shakes up the quiet convent life with her lively personality and love for music. Through powerful gospel-inspired songs, dynamic dance numbers, and uproarious comedy, "Sister Act" celebrates the transformative power of friendship, self-discovery, and the universal language of music. With its toe-tapping melodies, memorable characters, and uplifting story, this musical is a joyful celebration of finding one's voice and embracing the power of sisterhood.

Sister Act, the Musical

Moana Jr. features all the beloved songs from the film, written by Tony®, GRAMMY, Emmy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina, including “How Far I’ll Go,” “Shiny,” and “You’re Welcome.”  This thrilling and heartwarming coming-of-age story follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within. With empowering messages of bravery and selflessness, Moana Jr. is sure to bring out the hero within each of us.  Performed by kids, for families. 

Disney's Moana, Jr.

...And the Ball and All debuted in 1995 (the year in which it is set) and had a long initial run. The outrageous, affectionate chronicle of yat social customs must be imbued with immortal energies, because it keeps coming back and after 26 years audiences still love it….and this year ain’t gonna be no different!

...And the Ball and All 2024

An electrifying show that celebrates the vibrant spirit and rich musical heritage of the Big Easy. With toe-tapping rhythms, infectious melodies, and powerful vocals, this high-energy production showcases the diverse genres that have shaped New Orleans' iconic sound, from jazz and blues to funk and zydeco. Through captivating performances and a compelling narrative, "The Big Easy Boys" pays homage to the city's cultural legacy, transporting audiences to a world where music flows through the veins of its colorful characters and where the joy of music knows no bounds.

The Big Easy Boys: The Big Easy Beat

Set in the 1940s, the show follows young Ralphie Parker on his quest to receive a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Filled with memorable characters, catchy songs, and delightful choreography, this enchanting musical captures the essence of childhood wonder and the magic of the holiday season. Audiences are transported to a bygone era, where Ralphie's misadventures, hilarious family dynamics, and timeless themes of family, love, and the true meaning of Christmas come to life in a visually stunning and joy-filled production that's sure to leave everyone feeling merry and bright.

A Christmas Story, the Musical

A thought-provoking and darkly comedic exploration of the American dream and the unsettling allure of infamy. This Tony Award-winning show brings together a chilling cast of historical figures, including John Wilkes Booth, Lee Harvey Oswald, and other infamous assassins, as they converge in a haunting carnival-like setting. Through a masterful blend of music and lyrics, "Assassins" delves into the minds of these individuals, examining their motivations and the twisted logic that led them to commit their heinous acts. With its powerful themes, gripping storytelling, and bold staging, "Assassins" challenges audiences to confront the complexities of violence, celebrity, and the human condition.

Assassins

Many changes are in store: Junie's best friend Lucille has found new best friends -— and Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. While in Mr. Scary's class, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard — and she may need glasses. Add in a friendly cafeteria lady, an intense kickball tournament and a "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal," and first grade has never been more exciting. 

Junie B Jones the Musical Jr

Poisoned apples. Glass slippers. Who needs ’em?! Not Snow White and her posse of disenchanted princesses in the hilarious hit musical that’s anything but Grimm. The original storybook heroines are none-too-happy with the way they’ve been portrayed in today’s pop culture so they’ve tossed their tiaras and have come to life to set the record straight. Forget the princesses you think you know – these royal renegades are here to comically belt out the truth. Received an “Outstanding Off-Broadway Musical” nomination (Outer Critics Circle Awards) and a “Best New Off-Broadway Musical” nomination (Off Broadway Alliance). ** Contains adult language and content.

Disenchanted

The "Greatest Movie Musical of All Time" is faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends Betty Comden and Adolph Green, from their original award-winning screenplay in Singin' in the Rain JR. Hilarious situations, snappy dialogue and a hit-parade score of Hollywood standards make Singin' in the Rain JR. a guaranteed good time.

Singin' in the Rain Jr.

It's time to carry the banner on your stage with Disney's Newsies! Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged "newsies." When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what's right.

Disney's Newsies

Rivertown Theatres for the Performing Arts is proud to bring this homegrown family musical hit back for a fresh, new update of this classic New Orleans show. Set in Holland, Treehouse Players' Rapunzel tells the story of wicked witch, chocolatier, and style guru Maude who has her eye on a young bricklayer's wife who is expecting a child. Through "perfectly legal" means, she takes their baby girl and seals her up into an enchanted windmill, where no one but the pure of heart can see her. Enter The Prince, running away from his regal duties, pursued by the royal herald, Harold. It's a hilarious journey, filled with music, laughter, and plenty of heart!

Treehouse Players' Rapunzel

SpongeBob, Patrick, Sandy, Squidward and all of Bikini Bottom face total annihilation—until a most unexpected hero rises to take center stage. Step into a world of fantasy, cartoon and musical fun this summer!

The Spongebob Musical

Broadway New Orleans Style

Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo, performed by kids for families, with new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Disney's Finding Nemo Jr

This Olivier and Tony Award-winning comedy is a hilarious hybrid of Monty Python and Sherlock Holmes. Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it’s “A RIOTOUS EXPLOSION OF COMEDY!” (The Daily Beast) and “TONS OF FUN FOR ALL AGES!” (HuffPost).

The Play That Goes Wrong

Ball debuted in 1995 (the year in which it is set) and had a long initial run. The outrageous, affectionate chronicle of yat social customs must be imbued with immortal energies, because it keeps coming back and after 26 years audiences still love it….and this year ain’t gonna be no different!

...And the Ball and All

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is a nonstop laughfest in which Pseudolus, a crafty slave, struggles to win the hand of a beautiful, but slow-witted, courtesan named Philia for his young master, Hero, in exchange for freedom. The plot twists and turns with cases of mistaken identity, slamming doors and a showgirl or two.

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum

A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen JR. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!

Disney's Frozen, Jr

Made famous by the 1982 film adaptation starring Burt Reynolds and Dolly Parton, this happy-go-lucky view of small-town vice and statewide political side-stepping recounts the good times and the demise of the Chicken Ranch, known since the 1850s as one of the better pleasure palaces in all of Texas.

The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas

Christine Ebersole is currently co-starring on Chuck Lorre's hit sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola for CBS. She starred most recently on Broadway in War Paint in her Tony nominated role as Elizabeth Arden, opposite fellow Tony nominee Patti LuPone as Helena Rubinstein. She won her second Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical, as well as virtually every Off-Broadway award, for her “dual role of a lifetime” as Edith Beale and Little Edie Beale in Grey Gardens. She also recently starred in Paul Thomas Anderson's Oscar nominated film Licorice Pizza as Lucille Dolittle, based on Lucille Ball. In 2018 she made her LA Opera debut as the Old Lady in Francesca Zambello's production of Candide conducted by James Conlon.

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts

10 - 20 Jul, 2025

Annie, the Musical

9 - 25 May, 2025

Something Rotten

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Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts