In an exciting announcement, the Olney Theatre Center has revealed its ambitious lineup for the 2025-26 season. This remarkable program features two world premiere musicals, one world premiere play, and one U.S. premiere drama, showcasing a mix of established theater talents and emerging stars. Among the notable contributors are Lauren Gunderson, Zhailon Levingston, Nova Y. Payton, Ari Afsar, Joriah Kwamé, Daniel Bailey, Tyrell Williams, and even celebrity chef Carla Hall. The season promises to be a vibrant celebration of theatrical innovation and excellence.

A Season of Premieres and Talents

The journey begins with the U.S. premiere of Red Pitch, set to captivate audiences from September 17 to October 19, 2025, in the Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab. Directed by Daniel Bailey, this production made waves after transferring from London’s Bush Theatre to the West End in 2024. Next, vocal powerhouse Nova Y. Payton takes center stage as Dolly in the holiday classic Hello, Dolly!, running from November 6, 2025, to January 4, 2026.

February 2026 brings the rescheduled world premiere of Little Miss Perfect, directed by Zhailon Levingston on the Roberts Mainstage. Then, Artistic Director Jason Loewith helms Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ Tony Award-winning Appropriate in the intimate setting of the Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab from March 18 to April 19, 2026. The season continues with another world premiere, I And You – The Musical, featuring music by Ari Afsar and book by Lauren Gunderson.

In May 2026, audiences will enjoy Carla Hall – Please Underestimate Me, a one-woman show co-written by the celebrated chef herself, Lori Kaye, and Leslie Thomas. Finally, the season concludes with the regional premiere of A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, directed by Eleanor Holdridge, offering a blend of humor and suspense.

Beyond these main attractions, additional highlights include Paul Morella’s solo adaptation of A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas and the conclusion of the national tour of Michael Shayan’s Avaaz at Theater J in Washington, DC.

From the perspective of a journalist, this season's lineup is nothing short of extraordinary. It not only showcases the immense talent within the DMV area but also pushes the boundaries of traditional theater. Each production promises to engage audiences through compelling narratives and unforgettable performances, proving that the arts remain a vital part of cultural expression and societal reflection. As we look forward to these premieres, it becomes evident that the Olney Theatre Center continues to lead the charge in redefining the American regional theater movement.