Laguna Playhouse Announces 2026-27 Season

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New Leadership. New Branding. New Shows. A Bold New Era Begins.

Laguna Playhouse proudly announces its 2026–2027 season, ushering in a bold new era defined by dynamic leadership, vibrant new branding, and an exciting lineup of productions that celebrate the power of live theatre.

For more than a century, Laguna Playhouse has been a cornerstone of the Southern California arts community. As the Playhouse steps into its next chapter, it does so with renewed energy and a deep commitment to storytelling that is as colorful, compelling, and alive as the community it serves.

This season reflects a fresh artistic vision—one that embraces creativity, connection, and the joy of shared experience. Audiences can expect a rich mix of laugh-out-loud comedy, iconic musicals, and powerful contemporary work, all thoughtfully curated to honor the Playhouse’s legacy while boldly looking ahead.

“Theatre thrives when it feels alive—when it surprises us, challenges us, and invites us to see the world a little differently.” says Managing Director Adele Adkins. “At Laguna Playhouse, that feeling is guiding us forward. This season is about possibility. It’s about embracing color, curiosity, and creative courage—on stage, behind the scenes, and throughout our community. With our 2026–2027 season, we’re leaning into stories that spark laughter, inspire reflection, and celebrate the joy of gathering in a shared space. Laguna Playhouse will take bold artistic steps, welcome new voices, and remain a place where theatre feels vibrant, relevant, and deeply human.”

Regarding the new branding, Adkins says “I’ve been part of many rebranding efforts over the years, but I have never been as excited as I am about this one. Laguna Beach has such a rich artistic heritage, especially in the visual arts, and it felt essential to honor that by collaborating with an artist to shape our new identity. The result is logo branding that show art that truly reflects the spirit, creativity, and coastal beauty of the community Laguna Playhouse calls home.”

The 2026-27 Season

The 2026-2027 Season Kicks off with a World Premiere Musical "Wild Child"

September 9 – October 4, 2026 Directed by John Simpkins

A bold, contemporary musical about grief, addiction, friendship, and identity in a generation raised online. When two teens who connect as avatars in a virtual world are forced into a remote wilderness therapy program, their digital escape collides with reality. Featuring a vibrant pop-rock score, Wild Child explores what it means to disconnect, show up, and heal. Wild Child features book and lyrics by Dan Marshall and music by Julianne Wick Davis. This world premiere is presented in partnership with the Breath Project.

"The 39 Steps"

October 27 – November 15, 2026 Directed by Hunter Foster

Inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, this fast-paced theatrical romp transforms suspense into high-energy comedy. When an ordinary man is swept into a web of espionage, he must outrun danger, deception, and mistaken identity in a whirlwind of quick changes and inventive staging.

"Rent"

April 7 – May 2, 2027 Directed by Telly Leung

Set in New York City’s East Village, Rent follows a group of young artists navigating love, loss, and survival during the AIDS crisis. This innovative production reimagines the beloved musical through the lens of a filmmaker, incorporating live onstage filming projected in real time—capturing the urgency, intimacy, and raw emotion of a community determined to live fully. Written by Jonathan Larson, the show received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and 3 Tony® Awards including Best Book, Best Score and Best Musical.

"Bonnie & Clyde"

June 9 – June 28, 2027 Directed by J. Scott Lapp

The infamous outlaws come to life in Bonnie & Clyde, a thrilling tale of ambition, fame, and forbidden romance. Set during the Great Depression, this electrifying musical follows two dreamers whose desire for more leads them into legend—and danger. Discover the story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of the entire nation. Music is by Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll & Hyde), lyrics by Don Black and book by Ivan Menschell.