Old Town Playhouse, a beloved cultural institution in Traverse City, is set to captivate audiences with a magical line-up for the 2024-2025 season. Featuring a dazzling array of performances ranging from heartwarming musicals to thrilling plays, this season promises to offer something for everyone. From the yuletide charm of 'Holiday Cabaret 2024' and the whimsical parody of 'The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon,' to the enchanting adventure of 'The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe,' the playhouse invites theatergoers on a journey through diverse storytelling landscapes. Join us as we explore the highlights of this much-anticipated theatrical season.

Enchanting Tales and Musical Marvels: Old Town Playhouse's 2024-2025 Season Unveiled

Step into the world of storytelling with Old Town Playhouse's captivating lineup of events. From the gender-bending tale of 'The Man She Was' to the comedic twists of 'A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder,' and the timeless magic of 'The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition,' these productions promise a rich exploration of identity, humor, and friendship. Join us in Traverse City for a celebration of creativity and theatrical brilliance.

A Theatrical Journey: Exploring Gender, Heritage, and Friendship

Prepare to be entertained and enthralled at the Old Town Playhouse with two spectacular productions. 'A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder' offers a witty and intriguing musical journey through the cunning aspirations of Monty Navarro. Meanwhile, 'The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition' invites audiences of all ages to join Dorothy and Toto on their iconic adventure to the Emerald City. These performances promise a delightful blend of humor, mystery, and timeless tales of friendship and hope.

A Theatrical Journey: From Love and Murder to the Land of Oz

Traverse City's Old Town Playhouse is setting the stage for an unforgettable spring season with two contrasting theatrical productions. Starting with the hilariously dark musical 'A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder', audiences will explore the chaotic ambition of Monty Navarro as he attempts to secure an earldom. In June, the family-friendly 'The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition' brings the classic tale of Dorothy and Toto’s journey to the Emerald City to life. These performances promise to captivate audiences of varying tastes with humor, suspense, and heartfelt lessons.

From Murderous Comedy to Timeless Friendship: Old Town Playhouse's Spring Lineup

A mystery unfolds with laughter as four sassy seniors try to outsmart an evil nurse to figure out why residents have been moved to "the dark side," what is the mysterious pill, and what happened to Doctor Head? With the Miss Magnolia Senior Citizen Pageant approaching, a cruise ship calling their name, and a retired Elvis impersonator as their sidekick, hilarity ensues for these golden gals as they piece together clues.

You are the best judge of what is appropriate for those you bring to the theatre, but OTP recommends this show for Informed Audiences due to mild sexual humor and mild drug humor.

EPSG:4326

Four Old Broads

Old Town Playhouse

Join Dorothy and Toto as they “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” through the Land of Oz, to reach the Emerald City, where the great and powerful Wizard will help them get home. A glowing testament to friendship, understanding and hope in a world filled with both beauty and ugliness.

The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition

When the low-born Monty Navarro finds out that he’s in line for an earldom in the lofty D’Ysquith family, he figures his chances of outliving his predecessors are slight and sets off down a ghoulish path. Can he knock off his unsuspecting relatives without being caught and become the ninth Earl of Highhurst? And what of love? Because murder isn’t the only thing on Monty’s mind...

A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder

In this gender-bending play based on her book Memoirs of a Soldier, Nurse, and Spy: A Woman’s Adventures in the Union Army, Emma Edmonds enlists as Frank Thompson and serves as a male nurse, then a spy and finally a soldier

The Man She Was

Grand Traverse Event Center

It’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family. Now, Gomez must do something he’s never done before - keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents.

The Addams Family

C.S. Lewis’ classic work of magic and the mystery of Aslan, the great lion, and the adventures of four children who inadvertently wander from a wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia. This story of love, faith, courage and giving, with its triumph of good over evil, is a true celebration of life.

The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe

Christmas: a time for magic and the traditions we cherish. A time to watch as many TV movies as a human being can. But now you can enjoy six Christmas movies all at once! Welcome to Hopewood Falls, Vermont, where singles in adorable sweaters converge to look for love. Grab a hot chocolate and your favorite wise single friend for this wildly entertaining parody of holiday rom-coms.

The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon

Get in the spirit with the Young Company! This yuletide favorite features songs for the season in a fun, dance-filled musical revue.

Holiday Cabaret 2024

Grand Traverse Mall

It’s 1934, and Lucille Wiley, Manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is ready to welcome soprano Elena Firenzi. Alas, Elena arrives late, her husband has a fit of jealousy, and it remains to be seen whether the mousy but determined assistant Jo can save the day. Based on Ken Ludwig’s Tony Award-winning Lend Me A Tenor, this madcap screwball comedy is guaranteed to leave audiences teary-eyed with laughter.

Lend Me a Soprano

Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, is stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, she may have to abandon the dream of her own pie shop…until a baking contest and the town’s new doctor offer her a recipe for happiness. Supported by her quirky crew of fellow waitresses and loyal customers, Jenna summons the secret ingredient she’s been missing all along — courage.

Waitress

Unleash the power of physical expression as an essential tool in character building and stage movement. This workshop offers an immersive approach to physical theater, connecting with our bodies as a tool for artistic expression. While there will be some scene work, most of the workshop will be focused on improvisation and collaboration.

The workshop will cover concepts such as: planes, directions, movement qualities, voice, viewpoints, emotional connections, volume, and more.
Intended for: Actors, enthusiasts, dancers, movers, and anyone interested in discovering their inner performer! Ages 16 y/o and above.

Yo Soy Lo Que Soy: I Am What I Am

Experience the heartwarming tale of "Annie KIDS" at the Old Town Playhouse, where the timeless story of little orphan Annie comes to life. Set in 1930s New York City, this musical follows the spirited and optimistic Annie as she navigates life in an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. Despite her challenging beginnings, Annie's unwavering determination to find her long-lost parents leads her on an unforgettable journey. Along the way, she encounters the benevolent billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his kind-hearted secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable dog named Sandy. Through a series of adventures, Annie manages to outwit Miss Hannigan and finds a new home filled with love and hope. This production is brought to you by the talented young performers from our One-Week Intensive Musical Theatre camp, showcasing their dedication and passion for the arts. Join us for a performance that promises to charm audiences of all ages with its message of resilience and the enduring power of hope.

Annie KIDS

Experience a captivating double feature at the Old Town Playhouse, where timeless tales come to life in a unique and engaging performance. The first part of the event showcases Aesop’s Fables, featuring four beloved stories: The Fox and the Crow, The Hare and the Tortoise, The Donkey in the Lion’s Skin, and The Fox and the Sour Grapes. These fables are brought to life through a dynamic storyteller’s theatre, where actors seamlessly transition between characters, drawing the audience into the heart of each narrative. This segment promises thoughtful fun for all ages, performed by the talented Youth Studio Factory campers.

The second part of the double feature offers a whirlwind tour through The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less. This performance is a fast-paced, humorous, and updated retelling of classic Greek myths. With a ticking clock adding to the excitement, audiences will witness gods coming and going, the creation of mankind, Pandora’s wedding gift, and the epic tales of Helen of Troy, Achilles, Agamemnon, and Odysseus. The Teen Studio Factory campers deliver this performance with lightning-bolt speed, presenting the absurd destinies and goofy characters of Greek mythology with hysterical results. This double feature promises an unforgettable theatrical experience, blending classic storytelling with modern humor and creativity.

Classic Stories Double Feature

"Ride the Cyclone Highschool Edition" is a captivating musical that delves into the lives of six teenagers from a Canadian chamber choir whose lives are abruptly cut short in a freak roller coaster accident. Awakening in a surreal limbo, they encounter a mechanical fortune teller who offers them a unique opportunity: each must tell their story for a chance to win the ultimate prize—the chance to return to life. This concert version of the popular musical promises a poignant and humorous exploration of what it means to live a life well-lived. Stripped of elaborate staging and sets, the performance focuses on the powerful narratives and memorable songs, brought to life by the talented participants of the Teen & Advanced Musical Workshop.

Ride the Cyclone Highschool Edition

Once upon a time, in a faraway swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. His peaceful life is disrupted when his swamp is invaded by a motley crew of banished fairytale misfits, cast off by the diminutive yet ambitious Lord Farquaad. Determined to reclaim his home, Shrek embarks on a journey with a wisecracking donkey to confront Farquaad. Along the way, he is tasked with rescuing the feisty Princess Fiona. As Shrek attempts to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, the story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, bringing to life a vibrant and humorous tale. This musical adaptation, presented by the Summer Performing Arts Camp, captures the essence of the beloved story with engaging performances, lively music, and a heartwarming narrative. The production promises a delightful experience, showcasing the talents of young performers in a whimsical and enchanting setting.

Shrek the Musical JR

Step into a world where the past and present collide in "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court," presented by Old Town Playhouse. This captivating performance follows Hank Morgan, a modern-day teenager working on his school's stage crew, who is unexpectedly transported back to the legendary era of King Arthur, Queen Guenevere, and the Knights and Ladies of the Round Table. As Hank navigates this ancient world, he must use his wits and ingenuity to overcome an evil plot and find his way back to Hartford, Connecticut. The story unfolds with a blend of humor, adventure, and timeless themes, making it an engaging experience for audiences of all ages. Performed by the talented Theatre Explorers one-week campers, this production promises to bring the enchanting world of Camelot to life with youthful energy and creativity.

A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court

Step back into the vibrant era of the 1980s with "Nothin' but a Good Time: An 80s Mix Tape" at the Old Town Playhouse. This electrifying performance, brought to life by the talented students of Central Michigan University's Department of Theatre and Dance, promises a nostalgic journey through one of the most iconic decades in music and dance. Directed by Elaine DiFalco Daugherty, with music direction by Bruce Bonnell and choreography by Heather Trommer Beardslee, the show features a dynamic lineup of classic hits such as "True Colors," "Man in the Mirror," and "I Love Rock 'n' Roll." The production captures the essence of the 80s, complete with the era's signature style and energy, making it a must-see for fans of retro music and dance.

Nothin' but a Good Time: An 80s Mix Tape

Experience the enchanting tale of "Rainbow Fish" at the Old Town Playhouse, brought to life by our talented Theatre Explorers one-week campers. This captivating performance tells the story of Rainbow Fish, the most beautiful fish in the ocean, adorned with shiny, multi-colored scales. However, Rainbow Fish's refusal to share their vibrant, shimmering scales leads to isolation and unhappiness. In a quest for acceptance and friendship, Rainbow Fish seeks the wisdom of a wise Octopus, who imparts a valuable lesson: it is far better to be admired for kindness than for beauty. This heartwarming narrative explores themes of vanity, generosity, and the true essence of beauty, making it a delightful and thought-provoking experience for audiences of all ages. Join us as we dive into this underwater adventure and discover the transformative power of kindness.

Rainbow Fish

Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his son 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

Experience the heartwarming journey of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR at the Old Town Playhouse. Directed by Melissa May, this enchanting production brings to life the beloved story of Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, and his adventurous son, Nemo. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, the narrative unfolds as Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, prompting Marlin to embark on a daring quest across the ocean to rescue him. Along the way, Marlin encounters a host of endearing characters, including the ever-optimistic Dory, the laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang. Each character contributes to the rich tapestry of the story, offering moments of humor, wisdom, and camaraderie. As Marlin and Nemo navigate their respective challenges, they discover the true meaning of courage, friendship, and family. This production promises to captivate audiences with its dynamic performances, stunning visuals, and timeless message of perseverance and love.

Finding Nemo JR

Let’s go back to a time when hair was big, greed was good, collars were up and a wedding singer might just be the coolest guy in the room. It's 1985, and rock star wannabe Robbie Hart is New Jersey's favorite wedding singer. He's the life of the party until his own fiancée leaves him at the altar. Shot through the heart, Robbie makes every wedding as disastrous as his own. Enter Julia, a winsome waitress who wins his affection. As luck would have it, Julia is about to be married to a Wall Street shark, and, unless Robbie can pull off the performance of a decade, the girl of his dreams will be gone forever.

The Wedding Singer

Step back into the vibrant era of the 1980s with "The Wedding Singer" at the Old Town Playhouse. This lively musical transports you to a time when hair was big, greed was good, and wedding singers were the life of the party. Set in 1985, the story follows Robbie Hart, a rock star wannabe and New Jersey's favorite wedding singer. Robbie's world is turned upside down when his fiancée leaves him at the altar, leading him to make every wedding he performs at as disastrous as his own. Amidst the chaos, he meets Julia, a charming waitress who captures his heart. However, Julia is on the brink of marrying a Wall Street shark. Robbie must muster the performance of a lifetime to win her over before it's too late. Directed by Haley Bowker, this production promises a nostalgic journey filled with humor, heartache, and unforgettable music.

Welcome to the Young Company version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream! It’s the bard’s language we know and love on an abridged scale that will appeal to all. Full of magical hijinks and broad comedy, Shakespeare is brought to life with all the fools and fairies a primeval forest can hold!

A Midsummer Night's Dream

In 1926, radium was a miracle cure, Madame Curie an international celebrity, and luminous watches the latest rage—until the girls who painted them began to fall ill with a mysterious disease. Inspired by a true story, Radium Girls traces the efforts of Grace Fryer, a dial painter, as she fights for her day in court. Her chief adversary is her former employer, Arthur Roeder, an idealistic man who cannot bring himself to believe that the same element that shrinks tumors could have anything to do with the terrifying rash of illnesses among his employees. As the case goes on, however, Grace finds herself battling not just with the U.S. Radium Corporation, but with her own family and friends, who fear that her campaign for justice will backfire. Written with warmth and humor, Radium Girls offers a wry, unflinching look at the peculiarly American obsessions with health, wealth, and the commercialization of science.

Radium Girls

The classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. A "tale as old as time" for all ages.

Disney's Beauty And The Beast

Based on the 20th Century Fox Picture
Originally produced on Broadway by Robert Greenblatt, April 2009

When three vastly different office workers - Violet, Judy, and Doralee - are pushed to the brink by their sexist, egotistical boss, they don’t just get mad…they get even. Through a wild mix-up of fantasy, farce, and bold determination, the trio hatches a plan to take control of the office and transform their toxic work environment into a place of respect and possibility.

9 to 5

When her sister Mina falls ill with a mysterious disease of the blood, Lucy Westfeldt and her fiancé, Jonathan Harker, enlist the help of famed female vampire hunter Doctor Jean Van Helsing. Their hunt for the dangerous and sexy Count Dracula abounds with clever wordplay and quick-change antics. This lightning-fast, laugh-out-loud, gender-bending romp "very loosely based on the novel Dracula by Bram Stoker" is a combination of what would happen if the legendary vampire tale was put into a blender with Mel Brooks, Monty Python, and The 39 Steps!


Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

A whimsical reinvention of Dickens' most beloved Christmas story in wacky rhymed couplets. With zoot fruited juices and binka bird geese, from Bed-Headed Fred to Timmy Loo Hoo, this tale of glorious holiday cheer is similar to something Dr. Seuss might have come up with - if he ever had his way with the story...featuring our Young Company actors.

A Seussified Christmas Carol

Charlie Bucket, an imaginative boy with a knack for making something out of nothing, dreams of acquiring a golden ticket to tour Willy Wonka's over-the-top chocolate factory and can’t believe his luck when it actually happens. Fellow contest winners: the gluttonous German, Augustus Gloop; Daddy's spoiled rotten princess, Veruca Salt; chewing gum celebrity, Violet Beauregarde; and over-amped computer hacker, Mike Teavee, have no idea what they're getting themselves into, as they each learn lessons about selfishness and greed from Wonka, who is not only out of his mind but potentially dangerous.

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

A tragedy about a Scottish nobleman whose blind ambition, spurred by three witches' prophecies and his wife, leads him to murder King Duncan and seize the throne. Plagued by guilt and paranoia, Macbeth becomes a tyrant, committing more murders to secure his power before being defeated and killed by Macduff, restoring order.

Macbeth

Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture
In association with the Universal Theatrical Group

A musical adaptation of the Dreamworks Animation hit movie: Hiccup is a misfit Viking boy who is teased for being different. Instead of joining the warrior tradition, he chooses to go exploring and encounters a ferocious dragon he names Toothless. Shocked to find the creature is not as dangerous as the village believes, Hiccup and Toothless face challenges that test their courage, loyalty, and belief in each other, discovering that the greatest strength comes from seeing the world differently. Experience fire-breathing action, epic adventure, and big laughs on our stage with Young Company actors!

How to Train Your Dragon The Musical JR

Heir to the throne, the young prince Pippin is in search of the secret to true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh, and the intrigues of political power (after disposing of his father, King Charlemagne the Great). In the end, though, Pippin finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day.

Pippin

A civil war has ended. Will there be peace or new rebellion? What if your family, your friends, everyone you cared about begged you to change your mind, begged you to be silent - be safe? What if your life was in danger because of a decision you made, an action you decided to take? Would you be willing to die for taking that action? Or would you refuse the responsibility of making that decision? Each Greek Chorus member argues the side of one of the characters, hoping, this time, to bring understanding and peace to the war-torn land. There are no heroes, no villains here. Only individuals who face the choice: should I do what I feel is right? Or should I stay silent and safe?

Sophocles' Antigone

When the biggest highlight in your life for the past 30 years has been your weekly bridge night out with the "girls," what do you do when one of your foursome inconveniently dies? If you're Connie, Leona and Millie, three southern ladies from Birmingham, you do the most daring thing you've ever done. You "borrow" the ashes from the funeral home for one last card game, and the wildest, most exciting night of your lives involves a police raid, a stripper and a whole new way of looking at all the fun you can have when you're truly living.

Old Town Playhouse

11 - 26 Sep, 2026

9 to 5

23 - 31 Oct, 2026

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

20 - 22 Nov, 2026

A Seussified Christmas Carol

4 - 19 Dec, 2026

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

15 - 23 Jan, 2027

Macbeth

15 - 23 May, 2026

Four Old Broads

6 - 14 Jun, 2025

The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition

Articles & News

Old Town Playhouse