By Trevor Sullivan
The Encore Musical Theatre Company has unveiled its lineup for the 2024/25 season as tickets have gone on sale, featuring a blend of world premieres, Michigan premieres, and beloved classics. Season 16 promises to captivate audiences with a diverse array of productions, starting with the world premiere of “NEW WORLD COMIN’.” Conceived and written by Encore’s Dayle Ann Hunt, this feminist 60’s Jukebox Musical features music from iconic artists such as Petula Clark, Cass Elliot, and Lesley Gore. The show follows the journey of four ambitious girls who set out for New York City in a VW Bus, navigating life’s twists and turns along the way.
The University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre & Dance returns with “BAT BOY The Musical,” a quirky story inspired by a 1990s tabloid tale. This darkly humorous production about a half-bat, half-boy creature found in West Virginia will feature new musical numbers by composer and lyricist Lawrence O’Keefe.
For the holiday season, The Encore will present the heartwarming classic “ANNIE,” bringing the beloved tale of the optimistic red-headed orphan to life with memorable songs and lively performances, making it a perfect treat for families.
In March, audiences will experience the Michigan premiere of “SENSE & SENSIBILITY,” a new musical adaptation by Paul Gordon based on Jane Austen’s novel, Pride & Prejudice. This award-winning production, originally commissioned by the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, retains much of Austen’s wit and charm.
Spring will see Fred Grandy of “The Love Boat” fame starring as “Lady Bracknell” in Oscar Wilde’s “THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST.” Grandy, who has previously performed at The Encore, returns to bring his comedic talent to this classic play.
The season will conclude with the iconic “WEST SIDE STORY” by Leonard Bernstein. This timeless musical, celebrated for its groundbreaking music, lyrics, and choreography, remains as relevant today as it was at its debut over six decades ago, addressing themes of love, prejudice, and social tension.
Season passes (listed below) offer various options and savings, including the Full Season 16 Pass, which encompasses all main stage productions and tribute concerts for $460. The Encore Pass, which includes everything except U-M’s “BAT BOY,” is available for $412.25. Additionally, patrons can opt for the Main Stage Pass or the Tribute Concert Pass, providing flexibility to enjoy selected shows and concerts at discounted rates. Season Pass holders gain PRIORITY ACCESS to tickets for all performances, as well as 10% off on additional tickets for shows in your pass.
Full Season 16 Pass *Includes U-M’S BAT BOY
$460 (15% SAVINGS – BEST VALUE)
11 Ticket Vouchers Include:
1.New World Comin’
2.Bat Boy (University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre, & Dance)
3.Annie
4.Sense & Sensibility
5.The Importance of Being Earnest
6.West Side Story
7.Tribute: Sam Cooke
8.Tribute: Broadway Thrillers
9.Tribute: The Beatles
10.Tribute: Elton John
11.Tribute: Joni Mitchell
Season 16 Encore Pass *Does NOT include U-M’S BAT BOY
$412.25 (15% SAVINGS)
10 Ticket Vouchers Include:
1.New World Comin’
2.Annie
3.Sense & Sensibility
4.The Importance of Being Earnest
5.West Side Story
6.Tribute: Sam Cooke
7.Tribute: Broadway Thrillers
8.Tribute: The Beatles
9.Tribute: Elton John
10.Tribute: Joni Mitchell
6-Show Main Stage Pass
$308 (10% SAVINGS) *Includes U-M’S BAT BOY
6 Ticket Vouchers
1.New World Comin’
2.Bat Boy (University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre, & Dance)
3.Annie
4.Sense & Sensibility
5.The Importance of Being Earnest
6.West Side Story
5-Show Main Stage Pass
$256.50 (10% SAVINGS) *Does NOT include U-M’S BAT BOY
5 Ticket Vouchers
1.New World Comin’
2.Annie
3.Sense & Sensibility
4.The Importance of Being Earnest
5.West Side Story
5-Show Tribute Concert Pass
$180 (10% SAVINGS)
5 Ticket Vouchers
1.Tribute: Sam Cooke
2.Tribute: Broadway Thrillers
3.Tribute: The Beatles
4.Tribute: Elton John
5.Tribute: Joni Mitchell
