IN THE HEIGHTS, AN AMERICAN IN PARIS, FUN HOME & More Set for TUTS' 2016-17 Season

Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) announced a new line up for its 2016-17 Season today.

In celebrating the rich history of Theatre Under The Stars and looking toward its upcoming 50th anniversary in 2018, TUTS looks ahead to becoming a relevant and vital contributor to the arts and cultural scene in Houston and beyond.

Influential in this transition has been the addition of Sheldon Epps as its new Artistic Advisor, according to TUTS

Based on his advice and guidance, TUTS now promises to provide "more theatre for more people" by offering a greater variety of world-class musical theatre titles. It is important to seize the opportunity in this period of evolution to grow and expand. In an effort to reflect the growing landscape of the Houston community, TUTS will now present a more broadly diverse lineup of material. We believe it is crucial to show a full spectrum of theatrical experiences that engage, inspire, and entertain at the highest level of musical theatre artistry.

"One of my first desires when I arrived to work with TUTS was to examine the programming for the 16-17 Season. While there was much to admire, I also felt that there were areas where the choices could be bettered to create a more dynamic, vibrant and diverse season - one that reflected the stated noble initiatives and aims of the company. I am pleased to say that the new choices we have made fully accomplish that goal. I believe that this revised season will bring a greater breadth of theatricality to our audiences. It will also offer the work of some of the true masters of the musical theatre field from the august Stephen Sondheim to the currently justly celebrated Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of Hamilton, which is perhaps the greatest theatrical juggernaut of our time. Further, this season fully addresses the desire at TUTS to reflect the richness and diversity of the Houston community, and indeed of our country. All in all a combination of elements which I believe will create a "better than ever" season for TUTS which will be justly supported and celebrated," said Epps.

TUTS' 2016-17 season feature:

In The Heights - September 13 - 25
In the Heights, the first offering from Lin-Manuel Miranda, the genius behind the game-changing Hamilton: An American Musical, won five Tony Awards including Best Musical in 2008. In the Heights is a vibrant snapshot of three days in an eclectic Manhattan neighborhood as the residents face the changes and challenges of a world that is on the move. Powered by the sounds of summer and the rhythm of the streets, In the Heights features words and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda and book by Quiara Alegria Hudes.

How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying - October 25 - November 6
How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying is not just the name of a smash musical but also the book (based on a real book by Shepherd Mead) that inspired window-washer J. Pierrepont Finch's meteoric ascent up the corporate ladder of the World Wide Wicket Company. Known as 'Ponty' to his friends, this enterprising young man schemes and charms his way to the top in an office teeming with characters straight out of a 1960's romp. This Tony Award winning musical's snappy tunes and witty repartee were penned by Frank Loesser, with book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert.

Into The Woods - December 6 - 18
Into the Woods - Anything can happen in the woods! Winner of five Tony Awards, this enchanting tale, created by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, is a complex, courageous journey through a forest of calamity, cleverness and gorgeous songs. The whole family will be delighted as they follow Cinderella, a Baker and his Wife, Jack (of 'beanstalk' fame), Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, a Witch and a couple of Princes and a host of fairy tale companions as they journey into the woods and face wolves, giants, and what really happens when your wishes come true!

An American in Paris - February 21 - March 5
An American in Paris is the new Tony Award-winning musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war. Acclaimed director/choreographer and 2015 Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon brings the magic and romance of Paris into perfect harmony with unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin in the show that earned more awards than any other musical in the 2014-15 season!

Dreamgirls - April 4 - 16
Dreamgirls is a love letter to a time when the music of Motown reigned supreme. Winner of seven Tony Awards and two Grammys for Best Cast Album and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance, Dreamgirls tells the story of the Dreams first break to their tumultuous climb to top of the charts. Follow this female trio's journey, both behind the scenes and onstage, through the changing musical and cultural climate of the 1960's and 70's; they girls overcome cutthroat business deals and unscrupulous managers only to discover that fame can't replace family. Full of powerhouse ballads and soulful tunes, Dreamgirls has a book and lyrics by Tom Eyen and music by Harvey Krieger.

Fun Home - May 16 - 28
2015 Tony Award Winner - Best Musical
Every once in a while a Broadway musical comes along that surprises, moves and excites audiences in ways only a truly landmark musical can. The "groundbreaking," "life-affirming" and "exquisite" new musical Fun Home was the event of the 2014-15 Broadway season, receiving raves from critics and audiences alike, winning five 2015 Tony Awards including Best Musical, and making history along the way. Based on Alison Bechdel's best-selling graphic memoir, Fun Home introduces us to Alison at three different ages, as she explores and unravels the many mysteries of her childhood. A refreshingly honest musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes, "Fun Home is extraordinary, a rare beauty that pumps fresh air into Broadway." (New York Times)

Beyond today's announcement for the Main Stage series in Sarofim Hall, TUTS will be announcing additional productions for the 2016-17 Season on Friday, July 8.

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