SEASON 2026: ICONIC
Circle Theatre’s thrilling 45th Season, ICONIC, dives headfirst into exploring the power, pressure, and paradox of what we consider “iconic.”
SPECIAL ENGAGEMENT | BONUS SHOW:
A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN | BOOK BY RANDY JOHNSON
Directed by Ashley H. White+ | Music Directed by Vicky Nooe
January 29 - February 14, 2026 | Regional Premiere
A Night with Janis Joplin is a vibrant, electrifying tribute to the legendary rock and blues singer, celebrating her life, her influences, and the raw power of her music. Through a concert-style journey, Janis shares the stage with the voices of trailblazing women who shaped her sound—from Aretha Franklin to Bessie Smith. It’s a soul-stirring night of music, memories, and the unapologetic spirit of a true original.
*contains adult language and situations*
KING JAMES | BY RAJIV JOSEPH | Directed by Cherish Love*
March 5 - March 28, 2026 | Regional Premiere
King James by Rajiv Joseph is a sharp, heartfelt play about the unlikely bond between two men brought together—and pulled apart—by their shared love of basketball and the rise of LeBron James. Written by Pulitzer Prize Finalist playwright Rajiv Joseph, this piece is set over the course of nearly two decades, the play traces the evolution of their friendship alongside the highs and lows of a sports dynasty. It’s a funny, moving exploration of loyalty, identity, and the connections we build through fandom.
*contains adult language and situations*
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RENT | BY JONATHAN LARSON
Directed by Garret Storms | Music Directed by Vicky Nooe
April 24 - May 16, 2026 | Regional Premiere
RENT by Jonathan Larson is a groundbreaking, Pulitzer Prize and four time Tony Award Winning rock musical that follows a group of young artists struggling to survive, create, and love in New York City under the shadow of poverty and the AIDS crisis. Set in the late 1980s, the show captures the urgency of a generation living without guarantees and fighting to hold onto their dreams. With its iconic score and message of community, resilience, and “no day but today,” RENT remains a powerful anthem for chosen family and living life on your own terms.
*contains adult language and situations*
AIN'T MISBEHAVIN': THE FATS WALLER MUSICAL SHOW
Music by Fats Waller | Book by Murray Horwitz & Richard Maltby, Jr.
October 1 - October 25, 2026 | Return Engagement
Back by popular demand, Ain’t Misbehavin’ returns to Circle Theatre, bringing the music of Fats Waller to the mainstage. This vibrant musical revue celebrates the exuberance of the Harlem Renaissance, bringing the sounds of 1929 to life with infectious jazz, ragtime rhythms, and unforgettable songs. It’s lively, timeless, and impossible not to enjoy. An evening that invites you to sit back, relax, and let the music do the rest. Trust us, it’s worth another round.
*contains adult language and situations*
SCROOGE IN ROUGE: AN ENGLISH MUSIC HALL CHRISTMAS CAROL
Book and Lyrics by Ricky Graham | Additional Material by Jeffery Roberson
Other Interesting Bits by Yvette Hargis | Original Music by Jefferson Turner
November 19 - December 12, 2026 | Velvet Lounge Exclusive
Scrooge in Rouge is a fast-paced musical comedy filled with outrageous characters, theatrical mishaps, and a holiday story that refuses to behave. When most of an acting company is unexpectedly out of commission, three remaining performers are left to carry on A Christmas Carol… no matter how unpredictable it becomes. As a Velvet Lounge Exclusive, this immersive, up-close experience puts you right in the middle of the mayhem. Expect bold performances, unexpected turns, and a playfully offbeat take on a familiar classic that’s just a little less proper than you remember.
*Recommended for ages 13 and up*