UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Centre Stage Sneak Preview event will offer audiences an exclusive look at the productions, artists and experiences that will shape the 2026–27 season.
The annual event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 17, on the Olsan-Stone Terrace outside the Theatre Building on the University Park campus. The rain location is the adjacent School of Music Recital Hall.
With the season theme “Out of Many — One,” the stories presented invite audiences to consider how theater connects people from all walks of life. The theme reflects the larger purpose of the arts within a university community and society at large — bringing together different perspectives, experiences and voices to create something that can be shared.
“That philosophy is reflected in our 2026–27 season that intentionally embraces variety as an invitation to explore the many ways theater can move, challenge, uplift and connect us,” said Kikora Franklin, professor and director of the School of Theatre and Penn State Centre Stage.
The season preview will include hors d’oeuvres and performances featuring scenes and songs from the upcoming season. Patrons also will have the opportunity to meet performers and members of the artistic teams. Tickets are $53 and are available to purchase online at the Arts Ticket Center, by phone at 814-863-0255 or in person (10 a.m.–4 p.m. weekdays) at Eisenhower Auditorium. Prices listed online include all fees. Save $4 per ticket when you order by phone or in person.
Penn State Centre Stage is the professional arm of the School of Theatre in the College of Arts and Architecture.
“The season moves across genres and styles, inviting audiences to encounter familiar forms alongside contemporary voices and new perspectives,” Franklin said. “Each production offers its own world, its own questions and its own invitation to connect.”
Visit Penn State Centre Stage for more information about the season productions and to purchase tickets.
Read more about the Centre Stage program and how aspects of theatre inspire broad student success.
2026-27 season
- “Sister Act” — Oct. 6–17, James P. and AJ Jimirro Playhouse Theatre. Form a habit with this musical comedy based on the 1992 hit film.
- “The Wolves” — Oct. 27–Nov. 7, Pavilion Theatre. A girls’ indoor soccer team tackles the challenges of adolescence.
- “Tyrants” — Nov. 17–Dec. 5, James P. and AJ Jimirro Playhouse Theatre. A new biographical musical in which brothers Edwin and John Wilkes Booth find themselves on opposing sides of one of the most important events in history.
- “Guys and Dolls” — Feb. 23–March 5, James P. and AJ Jimirro Playhouse Theatre. Hailed as “the perfect musical comedy.”
- Penn State Centre Stage Theatre Festival — April 1–11, Penn State Downtown Theatre Center. More information to come.
- “Noises Off” — April 13–24, James P. and A.J. Jimirro Playhouse Theatre. Called the “funniest farce ever written.”
More information
Centre Stage will continue to offer opening night pre-show receptions and designer discussions where attendees can meet the artistic team. Tickets are $20 and should be purchased separately from show tickets (via the Arts Ticket Center). For additional show and ticket information, visit Penn State Centre Stage.