Welcome to the 24-25 Season

Brandon Eisman • September 2, 2024

From the 24-25 President of the Board of the Directors

Dear Theatre Lawrence Community,


Welcome to Theatre Lawrence, where this season's theme, "Extraordinary Theatre," sets the stage for an unforgettable journey! As the President of the Board of Directors, I am both thrilled and deeply honored to guide us through a time of remarkable transformation and growth for our theatre and community alongside our dedicated TL staff and 2024-25 Board of Directors. 


The arts play a vital role in the growth and enrichment of our community. They offer a space where creativity flourishes, stories come to life, and diverse voices are heard. Through the magic of theatre, we illuminate the human experience, stir imagination, and unite our community in moments of shared emotion and reflection. Let us all contribute to writing the next chapter of creativity and inspiration.


Prepare yourself for an exhilarating lineup of shows designed to entertain and inspire. From the hilariously spooky Young Frankenstein and the whimsical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to the vibrant drama of Native Gardens and the heartwarming comedy of Chicken & Biscuits, our diverse season has something for everyone. Solve the mystery with Clue, escape to paradise with Escape to Margaritaville, rock out with Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and be captivated by the artistry of Sunday in the Park with George. This season, we invite you to join us in celebrating the magic and creativity that makes theatre truly extraordinary!


This year, we are proud to present not only our regular season of shows but also a variety of special programs that highlight the diverse talents within our community. Our youth education programs continue to nurture the next generation of theatre enthusiasts, providing them with the skills and confidence to shine on stage and beyond. The Penguin Project, one of our most cherished initiatives, empowers young artists with special needs through theatre, creating unforgettable experiences for participants and audiences alike.


Additionally, our Vintage Players bring a unique charm to the stage, showcasing the talents of our seasoned performers and celebrating the timeless nature of storytelling. These programs, alongside our mainstage productions, reflect our commitment to providing enriching and inclusive experiences for all.


We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who support Theatre Lawrence. Your support, whether through purchasing tickets, becoming season ticket holders, bringing friends and family to the theatre, or making monetary donations, is invaluable. If you are not already, we invite you to become a contributing member of Theatre Lawrence. Your contributions enable us to continue our mission of bringing extraordinary theatre experiences to life and enriching our community.


We also invite you to explore the many volunteering opportunities we offer. You can assist in the box office, usher patrons to their seats, or lend a hand with bartending. There are also opportunities to work behind the scenes on sets or costuming, and to help with running lights and sound. If you’re interested in taking a more active role in the spotlight, consider auditioning for an upcoming show. Your participation not only enriches our productions but also supports the vibrant spirit of our theatre.


Our journey ahead is bright, and we are eager to share it with you. Thank you for being an integral part of our Theatre Lawrence family. Together, we will continue to transform lives through the power of the arts.


With warm regards,

Brandon Eisman

Board President 


Theatre Lawrence News & Announcements

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By Jamie Ulmer September 8, 2025
Welcome to the 2025–2026 Theatre Lawrence Season! This year promises a wide variety of theatrical destinations designed to entertain, expand, and enliven audiences and participants alike. We begin our journey with the Pulitzer Prize–winning musical Next to Normal . This groundbreaking work opened on Broadway in 2009, after first appearing as a 10-minute workshop in 1998. An unconventional topic for a musical, the show centers on a family navigating grief and mental health. In her book Feeling Pain is Normal, Rebecca Cecilia Kidwell writes, “Next to Normal provides a safe community for grief. Many of the audience members have experienced loss, and many of them will cry and hug each other—even if they are strangers—because they finally feel that someone is permitting them to be open with their emotions.” Paired with a contemporary rock score, the show asks honest, sometimes uncomfortable, questions. In rehearsals, we’ve reflected on how the themes and emotions explored by the characters are universal, reaching beyond the specific circumstances of the script. The excitement in our acting community has been remarkable: over 70 performers auditioned for this six-person cast. Casting was both a challenge and a gift, resulting in a group of performers who are giving their all every night as we explore this complex, rewarding material together. All of this makes me truly excited to share Next to Normal with you. Theatre offers the unique opportunity to share an experience—even when it is challenging. We thank you for joining us on this journey and encourage you to talk with one another, share your feelings, and seek support if this story resonates deeply with you. Enjoy the show! Jamie Ulmer Executive Director
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