UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A musical theater classic, a soccer-infused tale of adolescence, a laugh-out-loud farce, and more will entertain audiences during Penn State Centre Stage’s 2026–27 season.
Tickets go on sale Aug. 4 via the Arts Ticket Center (online or in person) or via the app. Penn State Centre Stage is the professional arm of the School of Theatre in the College of Arts and Architecture.
Penn State Centre Stage will produce five shows during the 2026–27 season, in addition to a sneak preview event to kick off the year and the inaugural Centre Stage Theatre Festival in April 2027. Tickets start at $24 for adults and $19 for students. Sneak preview tickets are $53.
“We are thrilled to announce Penn State Centre Stage's 2026–27 production season — a dynamic lineup of productions that offers something for every theater lover,” said Kikora Franklin, professor and director, School of Theatre and Penn State Centre Stage. “From beloved classics and award-winning plays to an exciting new musical and our inaugural Centre Stage Theatre Festival, this season celebrates the extraordinary talent, creativity and dedication of our students, faculty and staff.”
2026–27 Season Schedule
Sneak Preview Celebration
Drinks, hors d’oeuvres, a performance, and discussions with the creative teams and students.
Thursday, Sept. 17, 5:30–8 p.m., Olsan-Stone Terrace (if rain, School of Music Recital Hall)
“Sister Act”
Oct. 6–17, Playhouse Theatre. 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, 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, Playhouse Theatre. Hailed as “the perfect musical comedy.”
Penn State Centre Stage Theatre Festival
April 1–11, Downtown Theatre.
“Noises Off”
April 13–24, Playhouse Theatre. Called “the funniest farce ever written.”
Opening night pre show receptions and discussions
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 Arts Ticket Center).
Centre Stage Theatre Festival
Franklin said a highlight of the upcoming season is the inaugural Centre Stage Theatre Festival.
“It’s a space intended to provide new opportunities for student and faculty-driven creativity alongside a season of exceptional productions. Together, these experiences embody the spirit of our school — where many voices, disciplines, and perspectives come together to create transformative theatrical experiences,” said Franklin. “Whether you are a longtime patron or joining us for the first time, we invite you to experience the energy, artistry and innovation that define Penn State Centre Stage.”
For additional show and ticket information, visit theatre.psu.edu/centrestage. Tickets are available online, by calling 814-863-0255, or visiting the Arts Ticket Center. All prices include a $4 Ticketmaster fee. This fee will be waived if tickets are purchased in person at the Arts Ticket Center or by phone at 814-863-0255.