CABARET, DIRTY DANCING, and More Fill Broadway in Wilmington's 2017-18 Season

The 2017-2018 Broadway in Wilmington series at The Playhouse on Rodney Square was announced today at a special launch event. The Broadway Series, the third season under the management of The Grand Opera House, includes four week-long productions, THE WIZARD OF OZ, CABARET, DIRTY DANCING: THE CLASSIC STORY LIVE ON STAGE, and MOTOWN THE MUSICAL. In addition, the schedule includes two limited-engagements, THE ILLUSIONISTS: LIVE FROM BROADWAY™ and DANCE TO THE MOVIES.

"We are delighted with this year's season, featuring high-caliber Broadway productions that appeal to all of our audiences," says Executive Director Mark Fields. "With shows and subscription options to fit every taste and budget, we're looking forward to the most successful season ever of Broadway in Wilmington."

Subscriptions are currently on sale for renewing and new subscribers. Patrons can attend all four of the Series shows for as little as $130. Tickets for the two special add-on productions can also be purchased at a discount in conjunction with a subscription. Season Subscriptions are available in person or by calling The Playhouse Box Office at 302.888.0200. All performances for the 2017-18 Season will be at The Playhouse on Rodney Square, 1007 N. Market Street in Wilmington. Individual tickets for all of the shows in the Broadway in Wilmington Series will go on sale at a later date.

The Playhouse is also pleased to welcome back Bank of America as presenting sponsor for Broadway in Wilmington. Chip Rossi, Bank of America Delaware Market President spoke at the launch event.

"We believe that the arts are an integral part of any strong community," says Rossi. "They help economies thrive, help individuals connect with one another, enrich the community and promote greater cultural understanding. We are so excited and proud to support The Playhouse again this year."

Subscription prices this year remain at a lower price than previous seasons. As more patrons choose to become subscribers, The Playhouse management is able to better negotiate for the audiences' benefit. In addition to this robust audience base, better relationships with key Broadway producers have enabled the operations team to secure first-run shows at affordable prices.

Broadway In Wilmington 2017-2018 Season

THE WIZARD OF OZ

November 14-19, 2017

The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, THE WIZARD OF OZ will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz, complete with munchkins and flying monkeys. Don't miss the chance to travel Over the Rainbow and experience this National Treasure on stage.

Playhouse Premiere!

THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY™

December 21-23, 2017

Direct from Broadway, the world's best selling magic show is coming to Wilmington! This mind blowing spectacular showcases the jaw dropping talents of the most incredible Illusionists on earth. THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY™ has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions.

CABARET

March 13-18, 2018

Based on Roundabout Theatre Company's Tony Award®-winning production, Sam Mendes (Skyfall, American Beauty) and Rob Marshall's (Into the Woods and Chicago, the films), CABARET comes to The Playhouse on Rodney Square. Come hear some of the most memorable songs in theatre history, including "Cabaret," "Willkommen" and "Maybe This Time." Leave your troubles outside - life is beautiful at CABARET- John Kander, Fred Ebb, and Joe Masteroff's Tony-winning musical about following your heart while the world loses its way.

Playhouse Premiere!

DIRTY DANCING - THE CLASSIC STORY LIVE ON STAGE

April 3-8, 2018

DIRTY DANCING - THE CLASSIC STORY LIVE ON STAGE is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensational dancing. Seen by millions across the globe, this worldwide smash hit tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Featuring the hit songs, "Hungry Eyes," "Hey Baby," "Do You Love Me?" and the heart-stopping "(I've Had) The Time of My Life." London's Sunday Express says, "this crowd-pleasing stage adaptation hits the jackpot!" Don't miss your chance to see this record-breaking live theatre sensation. You'll have the time of your life!

Playhouse Premiere!

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

May 1-6, 2018

It began as one man's story ...became everyone's music ...and is now Broadway's musical. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy's journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as "My Girl" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit MOTOWN THE MUSICAL!

Playhouse Premiere!

DANCE TO THE MOVIES

May 18-20, 2018

From the producers of Ballroom with a Twist, DANCE TO THE MOVIES celebrates and reinvents some of Hollywood's best musical moments on the silver screen. Seven of TV and stage's top choreographers bring to life the classic movie dances of yesterday with a fresh new vision. Starring Dancing With The Stars celebrity pros, So You Think You Can Dance top finalists and combining forces with singing stars from American Idol and The Voice, DANCE TO THE MOVIES recreates some of the most iconic characters and memorable musical moments. The production features iconic movie musicals such as West Side Story, Grease, Chicago, Hairspray and Moulin Rouge, as well as stunning new dances to scores from The Godfather, Titanic, The Matrix and LES MISERABLES... plus a special appearance by Academy Award nominee Lesley Ann Warren! This is a perfect evening of cinema magic - LIVE on stage.