Musical Theatre West Reveals 2026 Season Lineup
The Season of Dreams kicks off February 13, 2026, and runs through November 22, 2026.
By: Stephi Wild May. 30, 2025
Musical Theatre West (MTW) has announced the four musicals that will make up its 74th annual season of Broadway-caliber musicals. The 2026 season weaves together the stories of characters all chasing their dreams: dreams of a better life, of fame and glory, of being a writer, or the impossible dream. The Season of Dreams kicks off February 13, 2026, and runs through November 22, 2026.
The season begins with Man of La Mancha (February 13 - March 1), the story of Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote coming to life as de Cervantes pleads for his life, followed by In the Heights (April 10 - 26), Lin-Manuel Miranda's first Broadway musical inspired by the heart and hope of his real life growing up in New York City. Over the summer, the high energy Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat dances its way to Long Beach (July 10 - 26) and the March sisters take center stage in the season finale with Little Women, the musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's beloved novel (November 6 - 22).
“As we approach our 75th anniversary season in 2027, we knew we wanted our 2026 season to represent who we are and who we dream to be,” said Paul Garman, Executive Director/ Producer for MTW. “These four musicals are all about reflecting on the past, but also dreaming big; and that is our goal for next year and beyond. Two of the pieces are based on beloved works of literature, which ties in wonderfully with our ever-expanding education and outreach programs, and the other two are big Broadway musicals with beautiful themes, which are what we do best. We hope our Season of Dreams will make audiences' dreams come true!”
Man of La Mancha
Written by Dale Wasserman
Music by Mitch Leigh
Lyrics by Joe Darion
Original Production Staged by Albert Marre
Originally Produced by Albert W. Selden and Hal James
February 13 - March 1, 2026
Bold, theatrical, and timelessly relevant, Man of La Mancha is a masterwork of musical theatre that explores the thin line between reality and illusion. Set in the dungeons of the Spanish Inquisition, playwright and tax collector Miguel de Cervantes mounts a passionate defense of his life's work by transforming his fellow prisoners into the characters from the beloved story of Don Quixote. With its stirring score - including the iconic anthem “The Impossible Dream” - and its powerful message of courage, hope, and unyielding idealism, Man of La Mancha challenges us to see the world not as it is, but as it should be.
In the Heights
Music and Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda
Book by Quiara Alegría Hudes
Conceived by Lin-Manuel Miranda
April 10 - 26, 2026
Before Hamilton took the world by storm, Lin-Manuel Miranda used his real life as inspiration and created In the Heights - a vibrant, Tony Award-winning musical that pulses with the rhythm of the streets and the heart of a community. Set in New York City's Washington Heights, this exhilarating story follows a neighborhood as they dream of escape, of belonging, and of a future full of promise. Through the infectious energy of hip-hop, salsa, merengue, and soul, this musical celebrates the hopes that propel us forward and the ties that bind us together, as one neighborhood strives to hold onto its roots while reaching for something more.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
July 10 - 26, 2026
Go Go Go JOE! Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a dazzling celebration of hope, resilience, and the power of dreams. Based on the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers, and his multicolored coat, this high-energy musical follows Joseph's journey from betrayal to triumph as his unshakable belief in his dreams leads him to greatness. With an unforgettable score that spans genres from pop to rock to jazz, this vibrant, heartwarming show explores how dreams can change the course of fate, inspire others, and reveal the true potential within us all.
Little Women
Music by Jason Howland
Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein
Book by Allan Knee
Based on the novel by Louisa May Alcott
November 6 - 22, 2026
Every generation has their version of Louisa May Alcott's timeless novel Little Women. The March sisters' story of growing up, finding their place in the world, and chasing their dreams has made an impact on audiences of all ages, and this musical version will make the next generation fall in love with Jo, Meg, Beth, Amy and the beautiful world they inhabit. With a soaring score and poignant lyrics, Little Women captures the hope, love, and personal sacrifice that shape the March sisters' journey, reminding us all that no dream is too big when you have the support of those you love.
Los Angeles Awards - Live Stats
Best Musical - Top 3
1.
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Hollywood Bowl)
9% of votes
2.
HEATHERS (Backyard Playhouse: Treetop Production)
5.3% of votes
3.
HAIR (Conundrum Theatre)
5.3% of votes
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