Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Arizona Broadway Theatre announces a 10-show lineup for its 21st season of live performances in the West Valley.
This is the largest season of shows in the theatre’s history.
The season will run from October 2025 through September 2026 with productions ranging from classics like “42nd Street” to family favorites like “Disney’s Newsies” and award-winning musicals like “CATS.”
The season also includes the regional premiere of “Pretty Woman” and “Grumpy Old Men.”
“After much consideration and thought, the shows that make up our 21st season were chosen to excite audiences with our artistic vision and provide a varied theatrical experience,” said Kurtis Overby, artistic director at Arizona Broadway Theatre. “We are especially eager to bring newly released shows to the Valley and put our spin on them, but we also love taking classics and reinvigorating them for a new generation of audiences.”
The 466-seat Arizona Broadway Theatre is found in the northwest Valley in the heart of the P83 entertainment district in Peoria. It provides an all-encompassing entertainment experience for audiences of all ages by combining a one-of-a-kind venue with world-class dining and professional theatre.
The 2025-26 season includes:
Disney’s Newsies: The Musical
Oct. 3-Nov. 1, 2025
“Disney’s Newsies: The Musical” is an electrifying, high-energy spectacle inspired by true events. Set in 1899 New York City, it follows Jack Kelly, a charismatic newspaper carrier with dreams of a better life. When publishing titans raise newspaper prices at the expense of the newsboys, Jack and the “newsies” rise up to fight for justice. With thrilling dance numbers, an unforgettable score by Alan Menken and show-stopping songs like “King of New York” and “Seize the Day,” Newsies is an inspiring tale of resilience, friendship and the power of standing up for what is right.
A Christmas Story
Nov. 14-Dec. 27, 2025
“A Christmas Story” is a heartwarming and hilarious holiday adventure based on the beloved 1983 classic film. The show follows young Ralphie Parker on his quest for the ultimate Christmas gift – a Red Ryder Carbine-Action BB Gun. Along the way, he faces bullies and endures his quirky family’s antics. With a sparkling score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, captivating musical numbers and plenty of holiday cheer, A Christmas Story is a festive celebration with childhood nostalgia and the magic of the holiday season.
Million Dollar Quartet Christmas
Dec. 11-21, 2025
“Million Dollar Quartet Christmas” is a fantastic holiday sequel to the hit musical Million Dollar Quartet, seen on the Arizona Broadway Theatre stage in Season 20. Set on December 4, 1956, at Sun Records in Memphis, it reunites rock-n-roll legends Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins for an electrifying holiday jam session. With dazzling performances and heartwarming holiday spirit, this show captures the magic of the holidays and the energy of some of rock-n-roll’s greatest icons.
42nd Street
Jan. 16-Feb. 27, 2026
“42nd Street” is a dazzling Broadway classic that follows the journey of Peggy Sawyer, a small-town girl with big-city dreams. Once she arrives in New York City, Peggy lands a spot in the biggest musical on Broadway, directed by Julian Marsh. When the show’s leading lady is injured on opening night, Peggy gets the chance of a lifetime to step into the spotlight. 42nd Street is a spectacle filled with breathtaking tap dancing, showbiz drama and the ultimate underdog triumph.
Pretty Woman: The Musical – Regional Premiere
March 13- April 18, 2026
“Pretty Woman: The Musical” is a beautiful stage adaptation of the beloved romantic comedy blockbuster movie. When Vivan, a spirited Hollywood escort, has a chance encounter with Edward, their worlds collide in an unexpected whirlwind of romance. As they navigate high society, self-discovery and the power of love, Vivian must decide if she’s ready to rewrite her own fairy tale. Pretty Woman is a heartwarming, glamorous and electrifying love story that proves dreams can come true.
Bonnie and Clyde
May 1-31, 2026
“Bonnie and Clyde” is a thrilling, passion-fueled tale of two of America’s most infamous outlaws. When small-town waitress Bonnie Parker falls for charming ex-con Clyde Barrow, their love sparks a crime spree that captures the nation’s attention. As their crimes escalate, so does their fame – until the law closes in. Featuring a powerful blues and rock-infused score by Frank Wildhorn, this musical explores the dangerous allure of fame and a love story written in gunfire.
CATS
June 12-July 25, 2026
“CATS” is a mesmerizing, one-of-a-kind theatrical experience that transports audiences into the mysterious world of the Jellicle Cats. Through breathtaking dance numbers, stunning visuals and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s unforgettable score, CATS is a spellbinding journey of rebirth, acceptance, and the magic of the feline world. Music includes the iconic ballad “Memory” where each cat highlights their unique story.
Avenue Q
July 9-19, 2026
“Avenue Q” is a laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless story of a bright-eyed college grad named Princeton and his friends on a shabby street in New York. This hilarious and irreverent Tony Award-winning musical blends puppetry with live actors to tell the story of finding one’s purpose. Alongside a colorful cast of quirky characters (some stuffed; some live), they navigate love, career struggles and the challenges of becoming an adult with humor and catchy songs. Avenue Q is a coming-of-age comedy that proves life’s lessons are best learned with laughter.
Grumpy Old Men – Regional Premiere
July 30-Aug. 8, 2026
“Grumpy Old Men” is a musical about two curmudgeonly neighbors, John and Max, battle for the attention of a vivacious and charming new neighbor, Ariel. As the men struggle for her affection, their antics escalate, leading to laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt revelations and a reminder that it’s never too late for love or friendship. Filled with catchy songs, witty humor and plenty of heart, Grumpy Old Men is a feel-good celebration of life, love and second chances.
The Prom
Aug. 21-Sept. 20, 2026
“The Prom” is a comedy-romance musical. When four fading Broadway stars hear about a small-town high school’s decision to cancel the annual prom, they swoop in to save the day – while hoping to revive their own careers. Their over-the-top activism clashes with small-town traditions, leading to chaos, comedy and ultimately, change. The Prom is a joyous celebration of being true to yourself and dancing to your own beat!
“This season is a testament to Arizona Broadway Theatre’s commitment to providing the best in quality performances, not only in the year ahead but for countless years to come,” Overby said.
“Our mission is to continue to provide the Valley with incredible shows, dining and educational opportunities for young people for decades to come. We want guests to leave each show feeling enriched, entertained and eager to return for more!”
