Stages Reveals 2026-27 Season - COME FROM AWAY, THE ROOMMATE and More

Stages has revealed its 2026–27 season, a selection of beloved musicals, award-winning dramas and comedies, and bold contemporary works that celebrate the power of storytelling and community. Under Artistic Director Derek Charles Livingston, and with Associate Artistic Director Valerie Rachelle, these works will come to life in The Gordy, Stages’ intimate three-theater venue. 

The season opens with the blockbuster Broadway success and Tony Award-nominated Broadway hit Come From Away, the remarkable true story of a small Canadian town that welcomed nearly 7,000 stranded airline passengers after U.S. airspace closed on September 11, 2001. Nominated for seven Tony Awards and now one of the most produced titles in American theater, Stages offers the Houston-produced debut to honor the good will and human kindness that emerged in response to the 9/11 attacks twenty-five years ago. Other highlights include the first post-Broadway Houston production of Jen Silverman’s dark comedy The Roommate, Pulitzer Prize-winner Katori Hall’s powerful drama The Mountaintop, Lauren Gunderson’s play Silent Sky, and John Leguizamo’s electrifying solo play Latin History for Morons. 

In addition to Come From Away, the season features two other musicals: the Tony Award-winning (Best Musical Revival) Once on This Island and the holiday favorite The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical. Special programming includes a cabaret celebration of Holland Vavra’s 30th production with Stages, along with the wildly popular One-Man Star Wars Trilogy, presented in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the original Star Wars film in 2027. 

In keeping with Stages’ longstanding belief that theater should spark dialogue and bring people together, all productions will feature free public talkbacks and lobby displays. Open to all attendees, these conversations invite audiences to engage directly with artists and explore the themes raised on stage, reinforcing Stages’ commitment to meaningful community dialogue and accessible theater. 
 

Come From Away

Sept. 18–Oct. 11, 2026, on the Sterling Stage. Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. Produced by Stacy Feltham and Richard Pearce, Susan and Neal Hirsch, Mady and Ken Kades, and Carolyn J. Keating.

Nominated for seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this inspiring true story proves that everyday acts of kindness are heroic in themselves. On September 11, 2001, 7,000 travelers are rerouted to Gander, Newfoundland, doubling the town’s population overnight. A moment of fear becomes an extraordinary story of generosity, hospitality, and human connection as strangers become lifelong friends. This uplifting musical makes its Houston-produced debut and marks Valerie Rachelle’s directorial debut at Stages.

The Roommate

Oct. 22–Nov. 15, 2026, on the Rochelle & Max Levit Stage. Written by Jen Silverman. Produced by George C. Lancaster.

Fresh from a hit Broadway run starring Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone, this comedy follows Sharon, a recently divorced Midwesterner who rents a room to Robyn, a worldly vegan from New York. Though opposites, they form an unexpected bond, revealing secrets and confronting long-buried desires. Smart, funny, and edgy, this story of reinvention keeps audiences guessing.

The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical

Nov. 20–Dec. 27, 2026, on the Lester & Sue Smith Stage. Music and lyrics by David Nehls. Book by Betsy Kelso. Produced by Mady and Ken Kades.

Set in Armadillo Acres, Florida, this hilarious holiday musical follows a colorful group of residents navigating family drama, romance, and festive chaos. With outrageous humor and country-rock songs, it delivers big laughs and a heartfelt reminder that unconventional families can still find love and joy.

The Mountaintop

Feb. 5–28, 2027, on the Sterling Stage. Written by Katori Hall. Produced by Syma Zerkow.

On April 3, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reflects in Room 306 of the Lorraine Motel. When a quick-witted maid named Camae arrives, their conversation becomes a powerful exploration of race, legacy, and mortality. Funny, tender, and imaginative, the play reveals the man behind the legend.

Latin History for Morons

March 12–April 4, 2027, on the Rochelle & Max Levit Stage. Written by John Leguizamo. Produced by Amy Sutton and Gary Chiles.

Concerned about his son’s incomplete education, one father embarks on a fast-paced journey through 3,000 years of Latin and Indigenous history. This one-man show blends humor and history to challenge perspectives and celebrate overlooked stories.

Once on This Island

May 28–June 20, 2027, on the Lester & Sue Smith Stage. Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. Music by Stephen Flaherty. Produced by Debra and Mike Dishberger.

This Tony-winning musical tells the story of Ti Moune, a young girl rescued by island gods who embarks on a journey of love and self-discovery. Set in the Caribbean, it’s a sweeping tale of hope, resilience, and sacrifice.

Silent Sky

June 18–July 11, 2027, on the Sterling Stage. Written by Lauren Gunderson. Lead Producer Carolyn J. Keating.

This true story follows astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, whose discoveries transformed our understanding of the universe. Lyrical and inspiring, the play celebrates curiosity, perseverance, and the power of women in science.

Broadway and Beyond: From Opening Nights to Encores

July 9–26, 2026, on the Rochelle & Max Levit Stage.

Join Holland Vavra for an intimate cabaret celebrating her 30th production with Stages, featuring Broadway favorites and personal highlights in a cozy, immersive setting.

Late Night Catechism Las Vegas: Sister Rolls the Dice!

Aug. 4–16, 2026, on the Lester & Sue Smith Stage. Written by Maripat Donovan.

Sister heads to Las Vegas for a church fundraiser in this hilarious one-woman show starring Denise Fennell, packed with improv, audience interaction, and plenty of laughs.

Sister’s Irish Catechism: Saints, Snakes, and Green Milkshakes

Feb. 23–March 21, 2027, on the Lester & Sue Smith Stage. Written by Maripat Donovan and Denise Fennell Pasqualone.

Sister returns with a St. Patrick’s Day twist, delivering comedic lessons on Irish history in this interactive and ever-changing classroom experience.

One-Man Star Wars Trilogy

July 20–25, 2027, on the Sterling Stage. Written and performed by Charles Ross. Directed by TJ Dawe.