This week on Theater Talk, Anthony and Peter talk with Buffalo's Daniel Croix Henderson currently on Broadway as the lover "Cleante" in Moliere's comedy The Imaginary Invalid
at the Todd Haimes Theatre, 227 West 42nd Street alongside Tony Award® winner Bill Irwin as "Argan." Daniel, a big fan of but not related to Stephen McKinley Henderson, talks about an inspiring visit when Stephen came to his classroom at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, and gives shout outs to Lorna C. Hill, Kelly Beuth, George Davis, and Meg Quinn and hopes that every theater kid in Buffalo takes advantage of the playground in the arts that is open to them. Meanwhile, this is the final weekend to see BECKY SHAW, EMMA, HAIR, and JANIS JOPLIN while at Shawfest, it's the final weekend for AMADEUS, FUNNY GIRL, HEARTBREAK HOUSE, and OHIO STATE MURDERS. But "as one door closes, another opens" and Second Generation has opened BATBOY:THE MUSICAL, while First Look Buffalo presents the first 5 of 10 new plays out at Canterbury Woods. Continuing shows include NUTS at Desiderio's, 1776 at Lancaster Opera House, and THE DAVINCI CODE at Road Less Traveled. Note: While the Shaw Festival's shows close either this weekend or next, The Stratford Festival continues all the way through November 1st. SEE COMPLETE LISTINGS BELOW.
Anthony's December 8-11 trip to New York City is SOLD OUT! Billed as "NYC Holiday Magic" it will include Shopping, The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, Broadway's SCHMIGADOON, with options for more Broadway on your own with Anthony! Join BTPM and Theater Talk’s Anthony Chase for an unforgettable New York City getaway, December 8 – 11.
SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LOCAL, SHAW, STRATFORD, and SHEA'S TOURING SHOW LISTINGS.
For in-depth reviews check out Anthony's blog theatertalkbuffalo.com. Peter's reviews appear in Buffalo Rising Buffalorising.com.
And remember: when getting tickets for any venue, please start with the producing company's own website, but especially for the three Shea's venues, go through Shea's box office, the producing company, or Ticketmaster. But DO NOT buy tickets from any other third-party vendor unless re-directed there by the producing company's own website. SCROLL DOWN TO SEE LISTINGS.
========================================================
LOCAL LISTINGS ARE PRESENTED AS FOLLOWS: CLOSINGS (last chances to see these shows!), followed by OPENINGS then CONTINUING then OPENING LATER THIS MONTH. Within the categories, shows are alphabetical by title, with any show starting with "The" under the letter "T." Titles beginning with numbers are alphabetized by how the number is spoken (e.g. "1776" is alphabetized under the letter "S.")
CLOSINGS:
A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN, by Randy Johnson, directed by Megan Callahan, music direction by Karen Saxon, starring Samantha Hoy (alt. Casey Moyer) with "Joplinaires" Dasia Cervi, Danielle Green, Anika Pace, Ember Tate-Steele. 9/11 - 10/3 Thu- Sat 7:30, also Sat 2:30. Presented by D’Youville Kavinoky Theatre, 320 Porter Ave. Buffalo (716) 829-7668 kavinokytheatre@dyc.edu
A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN PUBLICITY BLURB: An electrifying concert experience celebrating Janis Joplin and the powerhouse women who inspired her unmistakable voice, including Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, and Etta James. Spend an evening on an unforgettable musical journey bursting with iconic hits including “Piece of My Heart”, “Me and Bobby McGee”, “Try (Just A Little Bit Harder)” and more. Raw, rebellious, and wildly joyful, this is a night that doesn’t just play—it rocks.
_____
BECKY SHAW, a play by Gina Gionfriddo, directed by Chris Handley, starring Amanda Funiciello, Anthony J. Grande, Rick Lattimer, Tammy Hayes McGovern, and Stefanie Warnick. 9/16 - 10/3 Thu- Fri 7:30, Sat 3:00 & 8:00, plus Wed 9/16, Mon 9/21, & Wed 9/30 at 7:00 (!). Presented by Alleyway Theatre
BECKY SHAW PUBLICITY BLURB: "A Scathing Comedy Fresh from Broadway." This is a Buffalo Premiere for this Pulitzer Prize Finalist and Tony Award Nominee. When Suzanna sets Max up on a blind date with Becky, she has absolutely no idea what she's about to unleash. What follows is two hours of the sharpest, funniest, most cringey comedy you'll see all season, about four people who think they're perfectly fine and are absolutely not. Gina Gionfriddo's laugh-out-loud / squirm-in-your-seat dark comedy is fresh off a celebrated Broadway run, now in its Buffalo Premiere.
_____
EMMA, a play by Kate Hamill, based on the novel by Jane Austen, directed by Keelie Sheridan, starring Penelope Sergi (see below for additional cast). 9/18 - 10/4 Thu - Sat 7:30, Sat - Sun 2:00. Presented by Irish Classical Theatre Company, 625 Main Street, in the heart of Buffalo's "Theatre District."
EMMA PUBLICITY BLURB: A sparkling and spirited re-imagining of Austen’s classic novel, where a confident matchmaker’s meddling spirals into comic chaos. Emma Woodhouse is clever, educated, energetic… and in imminent danger of going mad with idleness. In a time when respectable ladies are expected to sit quietly at home, she desperately needs a project—and prides herself on matchmaking, much to the chagrin of her friend Mr. Knightley. But where Emma aims her attention, tangled hearts and screwball comedy follows… A fresh feminist take on a treasured classic, this Emma breaks down convention, expectation, and even the fourth wall with vibrant comic flair—leading audiences “forward, onward, and upward!" Starring Penelope Sergi as Emma with Julia Cianfrini, Diane DiBernardo, Alejandro Gómez, Peter Horn, Sara Kow-Falcone, Jeremy Kreuzer, and Timiyah Love.
_____
HAIR, book and lyrics by Gerome Ragni & James Rado, music by Galt MacDermot, co-directed by Alexandria Watts & Eric Deeb Weaver, music directed by Theresa Quinn.9/17 - 10/4 Thur-Sat 7:30, Sat 2:30, Sun 2:00. Presented by MusicalFare Theatre at Shea's 710 Theatre (Main at Tupper). (716) 839-8540 www.musicalfare.com or www.sheas.org
HAIR PUBLICITY BLURB: The groundbreaking Tony Award-winning hit musical remains relevant as ever as it celebrates community, identity, politics, peace, and what it means to be a young person in a changing world. Featuring classic hit songs such as “Aquarius,” “Easy To Be Hard” and “Let The Sunshine In.”
NOTE 1: Our production of HAIR does not contain full nudity. There is partial nudity, with performers appearing in underwear. The show also contains mature language and themes, including discussions of race, sexuality, drug use, war, and death. While we do not have a strict age restriction, we would generally recommend the production for patrons age 13 and older.
NOTE #2: Tickets for HAIR are only legitimately available through www.musicalfare.com or www.sheas.org These websites will take you to Ticketmaster to purchase your tickets. Purchasing tickets from third-party vendors (such as Vividseats) is far more expensive, and other sites can be fraudulent, potentially leading to invalid tickets.
_____
FOUR SHAW FESTIVAL OFFERINGS CLOSE THIS WEEKEND AT THE THEATRES INDICATED. FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION shawfest.org or call 1-800-511-SHAW:
AMADEUS play by Peter Shaffer, directed by Tim Carroll at the Festival Theatre. Opened Jul 8 • Closes Oct 4
PUBLICITY BLURB: “It seemed to me I heard the voice of God … and it was the voice of an obscene child!” Antonio Salieri is a pious, conscientious man—and the greatest composer in the Austrian Empire. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a young, foolish show-off — and apparently no threat. Except that Salieri can hear what no one else can: this ridiculous boy is perhaps the greatest musical genius ever to have lived. How can God have played such a trick on Salieri? To reward his devotion by rubbing his nose in his own mediocrity? There is only one possible revenge: God’s beloved, Amadeus, must be destroyed. This story of genius and the price it extracts is one of the greatest and most ravishing experiences in theatrical history.
_____
FUNNY GIRL Music by Jule Styne, Lyrics by Bob Merrill, directed by Eda Holmes — Festival Theatre Opened Apr 24 • Closes Oct 3
Approximate run time 2 hours and 40 minutes (includes intermission) Age recommendation 10+
PUBLICITY BLURB: Fanny Brice has everything it takes to be Broadway’s next big thing: the voice, the charm and more than a little chutzpah. But does she have “the look?” This touching comedy explores her unlikely rise to stardom with the Ziegfeld Follies as well as her turbulent love life with gambler Nick Arnstein. One of the greatest musical scores of all time, Funny Girl includes classics like “Don’t Rain on My Parade”, “I’m the Greatest Star”, “People” and much more.
_____
HEARTBREAK HOUSE play by Bernard Shaw, directed by Tim Carroll at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre. Opened Jun 20 • Closes Oct 3
PUBLICITY BLURB: “If we women were particular about men's characters, we should never get married at all.” The shadows of war may be gathering, but for most of the weekend guests at Heartbreak House, the big questions are about love and marriage. As the couples waltz in a dance of ever-changing partners, only the enigmatic old sea dog Captain Shotover seems to see what is coming towards them. Often ranked as one of the great plays of all time, Heartbreak House is Shaw at his most entertaining and mysterious.
_____
OHIO STATE MURDERS, play by Adrienne Kennedy, directed by Philip Akin at the Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre. Opened Jul 19 Closes Oct 3
PUBLICITY BLURB: “You reap no respect when you wring your hands: To weep like a woman is not judged wise." Suzanne, an acclaimed Black author, returns to her alma mater, Ohio State University, to give a speech on the violent nature of her writing. Confronted with the dark memories of her past, she unravels the painful truth of what happened in 1949, during her time as a student. This haunting and provocative play, penned by legendary playwright Adrienne Kennedy, is a poignant exploration of race, identity and grief. Mature content.
_____
OPENINGS THIS WEEK/WEEKEND:
BAT BOY: THE MUSICAL, by Laurence O’Keefe (book by Keythe Farley & Brian Flemming), directed and choreographed by Doug Weyand, presented by Second Generation Thatre, starring Ricky Needham as "Bat Boy," with Audree Woods, Michele Marie Roberts, Marc Sacco, Arin Lee Dandes, Kai Crumley, Danielle Walker, Karen Harty DiVita, Sabrina Kahwaty Garcia, Dave Spychalski, Collin McKee-Jackson, Joe Greenan, Thomas Evans, and Dan Urtz 10/1 - 10/18 Thu-Fri 7:30, Sat 8, Sun 2 at Shea's Smith Theatre, 658 Main St. (716)508-SGT0 (7480) sheas.org/performances/bat-boy/
BAT BOY: THE MUSICAL PUBLICITY BLURB: Based on an actual tabloid story, Bat Boy: The Musical is a comedy/horror show about a half-boy/half-bat creature who is discovered in a cave near Hope Falls, West Virginia. With a driving rock score and a wild cast of characters, this musical is perfect for you if you loved THE TOXIC AVENGER and URINETOWN.
______
First Look Buffalo Theatre Company presents their 2026 NEW PLAY READING FESTIVAL October 3rd-11th, 2026 at the Canterbury Woods Performing Arts Center 705 Renaissance Dr Williamsville, NY 14221. Each play is written by a member of their Playwright Wing, which is made up of professional playwrights both locally and from around the country, plus one play by a local guest playwright. These plays are directed and performed by local WNY artists, and two of these plays will be chosen for a full production in First Look Buffalo's 2027-28 season. There will also be an audience participation talk back after each reading. They invite you to help choose their next season! Admission is $10 per reading or $25 for a festival pass and can be paid at the door. For more information, email FirstLookBuffalo@gmail.com or call 716-771-6358.
2026 NEW PLAY READING FESTIVAL FIRST WEEKEND 5-play Lineup:
1. CROSS MY HEART By Wendy-Marie Martin Directed by Jason Francey Saturday October 3rd at 1pm at Canterbury Woods.
BLURB: Margot and Charlie settle in for their Saturday morning ritual with one goal: beat their Saturday crossword record. Two people who know each other inside and out work through the hardest puzzle of their lives together, and somewhere between the familiar clues and the impossible ones, they say everything they never knew how to say before.
_____
2. EVEN FLOWERS BLOOM IN HELL, SOMETIMES By Franky D. Gonzalez Directed by Mike Doben, Saturday October 3rd at 3:30pm at Canterbury Woods.
BLURB: An examination of the inmates within a system trying to discover meaning in the face of isolation and doubt in one's own worth over a 25-year bid. The play explores familial ties, love, race, inmate-correctional officer relations, the passing of time, and the succeeding generation of individuals who deal with the challenges of trying to avoid a life of crime or resigning oneself to becoming a part of the system that swept up previous generations.
_____
3. LARPers By Deborah Yarchun, Directed by Drew Fornarola,
Saturday October 3rd at 7pm at Canterbury Woods.
BLURB: After failing out of community college, Sam, 21, tries to regain his confidence by starting a live-action role-playing group (think live Dungeons & Dragons). But the only people who show up are his unstable older sister, Claret, who has a history of destroying Sam’s relationships, and Arden, a misguided steam punker who quickly catches his eye. Set in a small coastal town in Maine, LARPers explores the fine line between sibling abuse and sibling rivalry, living with mental illness in America, and the roles we play in one another’s lives.
_____
4. FIVE BY FORNAROLA, Written and directed by Drew Fornarola,
Sunday October 4th at 5pm at Canterbury Woods.
BLURB: Join us for a presentation of five short plays by one of Western New York's leading playwrights, performed by an ensemble of six of the area's best actors. From comedy, to drama, to science fiction, this genre-bending evening of bite-sized theater aims to offer a little something for everyone and will have you home by Sunday Night Football.
_____
5. FOUR DOORS DOWN By Donna Hoke Directed by Lara D. Haberberger Sunday October 4th at 7pm at Canterbury Woods.
BLURB: Janelle and Brittany haven't spoken since they were teen besties at summer camp; when they're accidentally reunited years later, they happily pick up where they left off, sharing vacations, the PTA, and their BFF daughters. Brittany wants nothing more than a friend for life, but when Janelle and her daughter's lives are upended, the fragility of their relationship is laid bare. Are female friendships conditional on commonality? And is there a special place in hell for women who won't support other women?
_____
NOTE: FOR THE NEXT FIVE NEW PLAY READINGS (OCTOBER 9-11) visit firstlookbuffalo.com/
_____
CONTINUING:
NUTS, a courtroom drama, by Tom Topor, directed by Lisa Ludwig, starring Maria Pedro, Connor Graham, Gerald Ramsey, et. al. 9/16 - 11/14 on various evenings and matinees. Presented by Desiderio's Dinner Theatre at Bobby J's Italian American Grille, 204 Como Park Blvd, Cheektowaga. (716) 395-3207
NUTS PUBLICITY BLURB: Tom Topor’s NUTS is a tense courtroom drama set in Bellevue Hospital, where call girl Claudia Draper fights to prove her sanity after killing a client in self‑defense. The play exposes sexual abuse, family coercion, and psychiatric power, challenging institutional bias as Claudia battles for autonomy and a public trial.
_____
1776, THE MUSICAL by Sherman Edwards. 9/25 - 10/11 Fri - Sat 7:30, Sun 2:30. Presented by Lancaster Opera House 21 Central Avenue, Lancaster, NY (716) 683-1776 lancasteropera.org
1776, THE MUSICAL, PUBLICITY BLURB: Step into the sweltering summer of 1776, where America’s founders argue, bargain, and risk everything to decide whether independence is worth the cost. 1776 is a witty, rousing, and deeply human portrait of the messy miracle of democracy—full of razor-sharp debate, surprising vulnerability, and a soaring score. It’s history with heat: funny, thrilling, and ultimately inspiring as the vote that changes the world comes down to persuasion, principle, and courage.
_____
THE DAVINCI CODE, adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and
Duncan Abel and based on the 2003 best-selling novel by Dan Brown, directed by David Oliver, starring RLTP Ensemble members David Marciniak, Nick Stevens and Johnny Barden alongside Lissette DeJesús-Wrafter, Chris Avery, David Lundy, Russell Holt, Priscilla Young-Anker, Gabriella McKinley and Sandra Roberts. 9/18 - 10/18 Thu-Sat 7:30, Sun 2:00 Presented by Road Less Traveled Productions 456 Main Street
THE DAVINCI CODE PUBLCITY BLURB: In this thrilling play, Professor Robert Langdon is called to the Louvre in the dead of night, where he unwittingly becomes the center of a murder investigation. When cryptologist Sophie Neveu arrives at the scene, she alerts Robert that, not only is he being asked to solve the crime, but he is also the prime suspect. Soon they are in a race against time to clear Robert’s name and decipher a labyrinthine code before a shocking istorical secret is lost forever. From Paris to London and beyond, follow along with two of your favorite characters as they solve this pulse-racing mystery.
_____
THREE SHAW FESTIVAL OFFERINGS CONTINUE TO OCTOBER 9, 10, or 11 AT THE THEATRES INDICATED. FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION shawfest.org or call 1-800-511-SHAW:
JEEVES & WOOSTER IN PERFECT NONSENSE, a play created from the works of P.G. Wodehouse by Robert Goodale and David Goodale, directed by Brendan McMurtry-Howlett at Shawfest's newly appointed Court House Theatre (new plush seats, proscenium stage, elevator available) It opened May 8 and closes Oct 10 Approximate run time 2 hours (includes one 20 minute intermission) Age recommendation 8+
PUBLICITY BLURB: Canadian premiere! Bertie Wooster is a young aristocrat who is forever getting himself into frightful scrapes. Thank goodness he has a butler, the legendarily unruffled Jeeves, to come to his rescue, usually without his even noticing. Based on a 1938 P.G. Wodehouse novel it's performed by three remarkable actors (Damien Atkins as Jeeves, Jeff Irving as Bertie, and Travis Seetoo as a variety of people) bringing to life a host of characters. This Olivier award-winning play is a celebration of both theatrical virtuosity and pure silliness.
_____
ONE FOR THE POT by Ray Cooney and Tony Hilton, directed by Chris Abraham at at Shawfest's Festival Theatre Opened May 27 • Closes Oct 11
PUBLICITY BLURB: Billy Hickory Wood is set to inherit a proper pot of cash. A wealthy businessman has decided to give £10,000 to the family of his former partner, and Billy is the sole living relation. Right? Wrong. Cue the arrival of several, hitherto unknown and identical, Hickory Wood siblings (all played by the same actor) looking to claim what they’re owed. To say that chaos ensues would be an understatement. The team that brought you One Man, Two Guvnors (2024) is reunited for this legendary farce.
_____
SLEUTH by Anthony Shaffer (Peter Schaffer's twin brother), directed by Peter Fernandes at Shawfest's Court House Theatre Opened Apr 2 Closes Oct 9
Approximate run time 2 hours (includes one 20 minute intermission) Age recommendation 13+
PUBLICITY BLURB: When a celebrated mystery writer invites his wife’s lover to their home in the English countryside, all is not as it seems. What unfolds is a fiendishly clever game of psychology and deception – but who is playing with whom? And is it really just a game? This Tony and Edgar award-winning play is a quintessential crime thriller guaranteed to provide an edge-of-your-seat experience. Perfect for whodunit fans. Mature content.
_____
SHOWS OPENING LATER IN OCTOBER 2026
FABLE OF THE DECONSTRUCTION "TOBACCO ROAD" 10/15 - 10/31 Presented by American Repertory Theatre of WNY
_____
SWEENEY TODD, musical by Stephen Sondheim 10/22 - 11/08 Presented by MusicalFare at Shea's 710
_____
THE HAUNTING OF HOOVERTON HOTEL by 10/27 - 11/14 Presented by Alleyway Theatre
_____
ALICIA KEYS HELL'S KITCHEN 10/27 - 11/01 P
_____
THE LAST YIDDISH SPEAKER, play by Deborah Zoe Laufer, directed by Kyle LoConti, starring Christian Brandjes, Arin Lee Dandes, Devin Klumpp, Sam Prezioso. 10/29 - 11/22 Presented by Jewish Repertory Theatre in the Maxine and Robert Seller Theatre,
Benderson Family Building 2640 North Forest Road, Amherst, NY 14068 Runtime 90 minutes no intermission (716) 650-7626, write to ayellen@jccbuffalo.org, visit jccbuffalo.org/the-last-yiddish-speaker/
PUBLICITY BLURB:
Jewish Repertory Theatre opens its 2026/2027 season with Deborah Zoe Laufer’s suspenseful and unexpectedly funny play about identity, resistance, and the enduring strength of culture, memory, and faith. Content Advisory: The play contains mature themes involving antisemitism, identity, persecution, and political extremism. In a striking vision of America’s near future, a white supremacist regime has taken hold, and survival depends on silence. Paul and his teenage daughter, Sarah, live quietly in a small upstate town, passing as Christians while hiding their identities as Jewish refugees. When an elderly woman arrives speaking Yiddish, a language from a past they’ve tried to bury, their fragile world begins to unravel. By turns suspenseful, heartfelt, and unexpectedly funny, The Last Yiddish Speaker balances high-stakes drama with sharp humor and humanity.
_____
DAMES AT SEA, musical by 10/29 - 11/08 Presented by The Kenan Center
_____
JULIUS CAESAR by William Shakespeare 10/30 - 11/21 Presented by D'Youville's Kavinoky Theatre
==============================================================
Holiday season 2026 at the Shaw Festival opens in November
A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD, a Tony nominated Broadway musical with music by Robert Reale, book and lyrics by Willie Reale (they're brothers), music direction by Ryan deSouza at the Court House Theatre 11/05 - 12/23
PUBLICITY BLURB: “Merry Almost-Christmas, happy that you’re here. Merry Almost-Christmas, Happy Almost-New Year.” Follow the entertaining adventures of two amphibious friends with decidedly different personalities in this magical holiday musical based on Arnold Lobel’s beloved books. A Tony nominee for best musical, best score and best book, this wonderful story is sure to warm even the coldest heart. Frog is happy-go-lucky and Toad is a cranky pants, but the pair get along famously as they go through the four seasons together in the woods. Children as young as three and as old as 90 will be enchanted by this colourful production. We promise you will leave humming the songs and longing for “Cookies” throughout the holidays.
NOTE: Family Pre-Show Workshop
Pre-show fun! Enjoy an interactive workshop prior to each performance of The Wind in the Willows and A Year with Frog and Toad. $10 with theatre ticket. Call 1-800-511-7429 to book. See calendar for dates and times.
_____
RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA at the Festival Theatre (Holiday Stage) 11/08 - 12/23
PUBLICITY BLURB: “In my own little corner, in my own little chair, I can be whatever I want to be.” Experience Cinderella like never before in this enchanting and cheeky stage adaptation of the classic fairytale. Step into a kingdom far away where glass slippers fit just right, pumpkins transform into carriages and dreams come true – all with a little help from a fairy godmother! The story of the girl who lived in the cinders reminds us that kindness is stronger than cruelty. Featuring some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible,” “Ten Minutes Ago” and “Stepsisters’ Lament,” this timeless musical treasure is a holiday treat for the whole family.
NOTE: Mini Manners Matinees offer a Workshop and Children’s Tea
November 14 – December 19 Prior to Saturday matinees of Cinderella.
By royal decree you and your family are invited to tea. Learn about royal etiquette and play make believe. Cookies and punch are provided. $10 with a ticket to Cinderella. Recommended for ages 5-10. Call 1-800-511-7429 to book.
____
SHOWS OPENING IN NOVEMBER
ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD opera by Jacques Offenbach 11/13 - 11/22 Presented by OperaLytes
UNCLE VANYA 11/13-12/13 Presented by Road Less Traveled Productions
WHERE WE STAND 11/13-11/22 Ujima Theatre
PROOF 11/19 - 12/06 Presented by Second Generation Theatre Company
THE PIGEON GETS A BIG TIME HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZE 11/21 - 12/19 Presented by Theatre of Youth
A SHERLOCK CAROL 11/27 - 12/13 Presented by Irish Classical Theatre Company
DISNEY'S FROZEN 11/28 - 12/20 Presented by MusicalFare Theatre at Shea's 710
SHOWS OPENING IN DECEMBER 2026
EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD (AND THEN SOME) 12/04 - 12/19 Presented by Lancaster Opera House
THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS 12/11 - 12/20 Presented by Lancaster Opera House
ROGER & HAMMERSTEIN'S THE SOUND OF MUSIC 12/08 - 12/13 Presented by Shea's Performing Arts
THE HATEFUL ELF 12/012 - 01/02/2027 Presented by the Alleyway Theatre
THE BETSY CARMICHAEL CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 12/18-12/20 Presented by O'Connell & Co.
===============================================
THE STRATFORD FESTIVAL OFFERINGS THIS YEAR ARE:
Festival Theatre
THE TEMPEST Opened Apr 21 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
GUYS AND DOLLS Opened Apr 22 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
SOMETHING ROTTEN! Opened Apr 23 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
Avon Theatre
WAITING FOR GODOT Opened Apr 24 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
DEATH OF A SALESMAN Opened Apr 25 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
THE HOBBIT Opened Apr 26 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
Tom Patterson Theatre
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Opened Apr 27 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
SATURDAY, SUNDAY, MONDAY Opened Apr 28 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Opened Apr 29 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
Studio Theatre
OTHELLO Opened Apr 30 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
THE TAO OF THE WORLD Opened May 1 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
THE KING JAMES BIBLE PLAY Opened May 2 • Closes Nov 1, 2026
===============================================
SHEA'S BUFFALO 2026-2027 Five Star Bank Broadway shows presented at Shea's Buffalo Theatre 646 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 (716) 847-0850 sheas.org will include ...
BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB™ — September 12–19, 2026
ALICIA KEYS’ HELL’S KITCHEN — October 27 – November 1, 2026
THE GREAT GATSBY — November 10–15, 2026
THE SOUND OF MUSIC — December 8–13, 2026
DEATH BECOMES HER — February 16–21, 2027
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD — March 31 – April 8, 2027
OPERATION MINCEMEAT: A NEW MUSICAL — June 22–27, 2027
Also, the Gallagher Encore Series (Subscriber Add‑Ons)
(Not part of the Five Star Bank series, but announced alongside it) are
BEETLEJUICE — March 5–7, 2027
JERSEY BOYS — May 18–23, 2027
SIX — June 8–13, 2027
The Five Star Bank 2025-26 Broadway Season is presented by Shea’s Performing Arts Center and Albert Nocciolino, and is sponsored locally by Five Star Bank, The Buffalo News, and WKBW-TV.
=========================================================
The 35th annual Artie Awards, honoring excellence in Western New York theater, were presented on Monday, June 8, 2026 at Asbury Hall at 341 Delaware Avenue (Babeville). Maria Pedro, Jake Hayes, and Anthony Chase were the hosts with Joe Isgar as the music director. Tickets were $30 with proceeds going to local AIDS charities.
2026 Artie Award Winners — Buffalo, NY (scroll down to see all the nominations)
Outstanding Production of a Play
The Book of Will — Road Less Traveled Productions / Shakespeare in Delaware Park
Outstanding Production of a Musical
Come from Away — MusicalFare
Outstanding Direction of a Play
Kyle LoConti — Sheltered
Outstanding Direction of a Musical
Jessica Hillman McCord — Islander
Outstanding Music Direction
Allen Paglia — Urinetown
Outstanding Choreography
Naila Ansari Carbonell Catilo — Dreamgirls
Outstanding Ensemble of a Play
The Cottage — Alleyway Theatre
Outstanding Ensemble of a Musical
Urinetown — Second Generation Theatre
Outstanding Leading Actor in a Play
Robert Creighton — A Skull in Connemara
Outstanding Leading Actress in a Play
Aleks Malejs — Thirst
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Play
Michael Starzynski — Irish Play
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Play
VerNia Sharisse Garvin — Twelfth Night
Outstanding Leading Actor in a Musical
Quinn McGillion — Jesus Christ Superstar
Outstanding Leading Actress in a Musical
Michele Marie Roberts — Come from Away
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical
Augustus Donaldson — Dreamgirls
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical
Alexandria Watts — Come from Away
Outstanding Performance in a Featured Role
Joey Bucheker — Shrek
Outstanding Costume Design
Collin Ranney — Game of Love and Chance
Emanuel Fried Award for New Play
Bella Poynton — The Girl in the Washroom
Outstanding Set Design
Dyan Burlingame — The Book of Will
Outstanding Technical Element
Diane Almeter Jones — Props, A Skull in Connemara
Katharine Cornell Awards
Ryan Cupello — Actor, Or, Irish Classical Theatre Company
Justin Lahue — Set Design, Oak, Alleyway Theatre
Career Achievement Honoree (2026)
Brian Cavanagh
THE NOMINATIONS:
Scroll up to see the winners. The 2026 Artie Award Nominations (copied from https://www.theatertalkbuffalo.com/post/2026-artie-award-nominations) are below. Visit theatertalkbuffalo.com for the list of winners.
Outstanding Production of a Play
The Book of Will – Road Less Traveled Productions
The Cottage – Alleyway Theatre
Hedda Gabler – D’Youville Kavinoky Theatre
On A First Name Basis – Desiderio’s Dinner Theatre
Sheltered – Jewish Repertory Theatre
A Skull in Connemara – Irish Classical Theatre Company
Outstanding Production of a Musical
Come from Away – MusicalFare
Crazy For You – Lancaster Opera House
Dreamgirls – Ansari/Saxon Productions
Ghost Brothers of Darkland County – Road Less Traveled Productions
Islander – Irish Classical Theatre Company
Mamma Mia! – Second Generation Theatre
Outstanding Direction of a Play
Mike Doben – The Girl in the Washroom (BUA / First Look Buffalo Theatre Company)
Lara D. Haberberger – Gidion’s Knot (Brazen-Faced Varlets)
John Hurley – The Book of Will (RLTP)
Matthew LaChiusa – Irish Play (ART)
Kyle LoConti – Sheltered (JRT)
Steve Vaughan – Conscience (JRT)
Outstanding Direction of a Musical
Chris Kelly – White Christmas (MusicalFare)
Randall Kramer – Come from Away (MusicalFare)
Daniel F. Lendzian – Shrek (O’Connell & Co)
Lisa Ludwig – Mamma Mia! (Second Generation Theatre)
Jessica Hillman McCord – Islander (ICTC)
Doug Weyand – Ghost Brothers of Darkland County (RLTP)
Outstanding Music Direction
Matt Caputy – Ghost Brothers of Darkland County
Joe Isgar – Penelope
Allen Paglia – Urinetown
Theresa Quinn – Come from Away
Karen Saxon – Dreamgirls
Stephen Schapero – Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Outstanding Choreography
Joey Bucheker – Curtains (O’Connell & Co)
Naila Ansari Carbonell Catilo – Dreamgirls (Ansari/Saxon Productions)
Kristy Cavanagh – Urinetown (Second Generation Theatre)
Michael Deeb Weaver – Mamma Mia! (Second Generation Theatre)
Eric Deeb Weaver – Hairspray (MusicalFare)
Michael Oliver Walline – Jesus Christ Superstar (MusicalFare)
Outstanding Ensemble of a Play
The Book of Will – Road Less Traveled Productions
The Brothers Size – Ujima Theatre Company
Conscience.– Jewish Repertory Theatre
The Cottage – Alleyway Theatre
Exit Strategy – Road Less Traveled Productions
Sheltered – Jewish Repertory Theatre
Outstanding Ensemble of a Musical
Between the Lines, Bellissima
Godspell – Ujima Theatre Company
Shrek – O’Connell & Company
String – D’Youville Kavinoky Theatre
Urinetown – Second Generation Theatre
White Christmas – MusicalFare Theatre
Outstanding Leading Actor in a Play
Chris Avery – Richard III
Robert Creighton – A Skull in Connemara
Rick Lattimer – Preservation
Jordan Levin – Just for Us
Cory McCants – The Brothers Size
Peter Palmisano – On a First Name Basis
Outstanding Leading Actress in a Play
Paige Cummings – The Girl in the Washroom
Josie DiVincenzo – Conscience
Rebecca Elkin – Sheltered
Sabrina Kahwaty Garcia – The Laughing Troll Café
Kate LoConti‑Alcocer – Hedda Gabler
Aleks Malejs – Thirst
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Play
Brendan Didio – A Skull in Connemara
Peter Johnson – Thirst
Stan Klimecko – Things with Friends
Dave Spychalski – The Game of Love and Chance
Michael Starzynski – Irish Play
Nick Stevens – Conscience
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Play
Kristin Bentley – Mr. Wolf
Diane DiBernardo – Exit Strategy
VerNia Sharisse Garvin – Twelfth Night
Pamela Rose Mangus – A Skull in Connemara
Shanntina Moore – Things with Friends
Maria Pedro – Sheltered
Outstanding Leading Actor in a Musical
Tiger Brown – Jesus Christ Superstar
George L. Brown – Dreamgirls
Louis Colaiacovo – Hairspray
Nicholas Lama – Curtains
Quinn McGillion – Jesus Christ Superstar
Marc Sacco – Urinetown
Outstanding Leading Actress in a Musical
Dasia Cervi – Dreamgirls
Kelly Copps – Mamma Mia!
Amy Jakiel – Penelope
Kayla McSorley – Islander
Michele Marie Roberts – Come from Away
Audrianna Yates – Shrek
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical
Bobby Cooke – Crazy for You
Augustus Donaldson – Dreamgirls
Phil Farugia – Mamma Mia!
Jake Hayes – Shrek
Austin Marshall – Hairspray
Matt Witten – Ghost Brothers of Darkland County
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical
Arin Lee Dandes – Urinetown
Anna Fernandez – Crazy for You
Mary Coppola Gjurich – White Christmas
Bethany Moore – Mamma Mia!
Debbie Pappas Sham – Come from Away
Alexandria Watts – Come from Away
Outstanding Performance in a Featured Role
Michael Blasdell – Pure Glitter
Joey Bucheker – Shrek
Nicole Cimato – Lucky Stiff
Kevin Craig – Twelfth Night
Jeremy Kreuzer – The Book of Will
Kate Olena – Precious Little
Outstanding Costume Design
Ann R. Emo – A Christmas Carol
Phylicia Robinson Dove – Dreamgirls
Kari Drozd – Sheltered
Collin Ranney – Game of Love and Chance
Ken Shaw – Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas
Todd Warfield – The Book of Will
Emanuel Fried Award for New Play
Ian Downes – Retail Horror
Scott Elmegreen and Drew Fornarola – The Laughing Troll Café
Daniel F. Lendzian – A Christmas Carol
Bella Poynton – The Girl in the Washroom
John Snodgrass – Ready, Set, Rerun
Outstanding Set Design
Primo Thomas – Crocodile Fever
Collin Ranney – A Skull in Connemara
J. Marc Quattlebaum – The Game of Love and Chance
Dyan Burlingame – The Book of Will
Hyla Stellhorn – Islander
Chris Cavanagh – Mamma Mia!
Outstanding Technical Element
Chris Cavanagh – Projections, Conscience
Diane Almeter Jones – Props, A Skull in Connemara
J. Marc Quattlebaum – Puppet, Crocodile Fever
Nicholas Quinn – Sound, Ghost Brothers of Darkland County
John Rickus – Lighting, Mr. Wolf
Emma Schimminger – Lighting/Sound, A Christmas Carol
2026 CAREER ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE – Brian Cavanagh
