2023-24 Season Announcement for Public Theater and Classic Theatre
The Public Theater of San Antonio, the longest-running theater company in Texas, in conjunction with The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, is proud to announce the 2023–24 Season at the San Pedro Playhouse.
This will be an anthology of stories centered on the importance of “home,” with passionate and encouraging stories of endurance and bravery.
J. Robert “Jimmy” Moore, Producing Artistic Director for both theater companies, kicks off the new season with a celebratory concert titled 111 Years & Counting! A Legacy Celebration of the San Pedro Playhouse. The show has a limited run of four shows. It will feature songs from the theater’s history of productions staged in town, performed by noted San Antonio performers and Resident Actors from The Public Theater of San Antonio.
This season offers something for everyone. A revival of an original adaptation of Charles Dickens’s tale, A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story, is this year’s holiday selection. The legendary West Side Story will launch the summer season, which concludes with a family musical. The title will be announced at a later date.
Meanwhile, The Classic Theatre of San Antonio’s lineup in the 60-seat Cellar Theater will offer timeless dramas. On Golden Pond stars Allan S. Ross and Terri Peña Ross. A Raisin in the Sun opens in February, and The Boys in the Band closes out the season in the summer.
In the spring, both companies will co-produce a world premiere of a Latinx adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream — Midsummer Sueño, commissioned from Paco Farias.
Moore adds more about the season, “I am thrilled about the collaboration between The Classic Theatre and The Public Theater of San Antonio. It’s a union born from a shared love for the arts and a deep commitment to our vibrant community. Together, we are not just creating exceptional theater in San Antonio; we are creating a true home for both our audiences and artists.
“The Classic is stronger than ever, and alongside The Public, we will be able to be more impactful than ever before. The upcoming season presents opportunities for authentic voices and diverse casting. It holds a treasure trove of titles that will have the community coming home to The San Pedro Playhouse, where the magic of storytelling and the spirit of unity will continue to flourish.”
111 Years & Counting! A Legacy Celebration of San Pedro Playhouse
Oct. 26, 27, 28, and 29, 2023 (limited four-show run)
Russell Hill Rogers Theater
Conceived and Directed by Jimmy Moore
Music Adaptation and Direction by Jaime Ramirez
Join The Public Theater for a spectacular celebration concert marking 111 years of unforgettable memories, music and milestones.
This extraordinary concert promises an evening of sheer musical enchantment featuring San Antonio performers. It showcases Broadway hits that have defined the company’s century-plus journey.
From classical masterpieces to chart-topping hits, this anniversary concert will take audiences on a musical odyssey, honoring San Antonio theater’s rich history and embracing the future with breathtaking performances. This concert will be produced as an extended fundraiser beyond the October gala.
On Golden Pond
Nov. 2–19, 2023
By Ernest Thompson
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio in the Cellar Theater
Directed by Anthony Ciaravino
Starring Allan S. Ross and Terri Peña Ross, On Golden Pond is a heartwarming play that explores love, aging, and family bonds, all while shedding light on the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease. Set on a serene New England lake, it follows the Thayers, Norman and Ethel, as they navigate the challenges of growing old, including Norman’s battle with Alzheimer’s. Their lives take an unexpected turn when their daughter visits with her fiancé and his son, unraveling family tensions and sparking a journey of reconciliation. On Golden Pond was chosen to celebrate the longtime Classic Theatre performers and founders, and celebrates the continued impact of artists 65 years and beyond in our community.
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Dec. 1–17, 2023
Adaptation by Tim Hedgepeth and Anthony Ciaravino
Musical Arrangements by Jaime Ramirez
Russell Hill Rogers Theater
Co-directed by Jimmy Moore and Robert Cardoza
Music Direction by Jaime Ramirez
Experience Charles Dickens’s timeless story, A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story, in a truly unique and enchanting way with spoken word and American Sign Language (ASL) shadow performances. Watch in awe as the characters come to life through the graceful movements of ASL interpreters casting stunning shadows that capture the essence of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation. This innovative adaptation brings a fresh perspective to the beloved holiday tale, offering a visual and emotional feast for all audiences, including the Deaf and hard of hearing. Join us for a magical journey of redemption and goodwill as we celebrate the spirit of Christmas through the beauty of ASL, ensuring a holiday season you’ll never forget.
A Raisin in the Sun
Feb. 8–25, 2024
By Lorraine Hansberry
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio in the Cellar Theater
Lorraine Hansberry’s iconic drama is a powerful theatrical masterpiece that explores the dreams, struggles, and resilience of a Black family living on the south side of Chicago in the 1950s. It weaves a poignant narrative around the Younger family as they grapple with racial discrimination, economic hardship, and the pursuit of their aspirations. As the family receives a life-changing insurance check, their divergent dreams and desires clash, sparking a profound examination of identity, equality, and the American dream. With compelling characters and a stirring narrative, this play explores hope and the enduring human spirit.
Midsummer Sueño
April 9–14, 2024 (limited six-show run)
A world premiere co-production between The Public Theater and The Classic Theatre
An adaptation by Paco Farias of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Musical Arrangements by Jaime Ramirez
Russell Hill Rogers Theater
Welcome home to San Pedro Playhouse for a new Latinx adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, told in English, Spanish, and Shakespeare’s verse, and developed especially for San Antonio. This Texan twist transports you to a world where mariachi melodies meet the magic of the Bard. Amidst the iconic River Walk backdrop, lovers’ quarrels, mischievous fairies, and a ragtag group of actors collide in a humorous and heartwarming romance tale. With Texas as the mystical forest, this production weaves together the rich tapestry of Latinx culture and Texan charm, promising a night of laughter, love, and cultural fusion that will leave you spellbound. Join us in celebrating Shakespeare with a Southwest Texas style.
West Side Story
May 10–June 2, 2024
Book by Arthur Laurents
Music by Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Based on a Conception of Jerome Robbins
Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Russell Hill Rogers Theater
Experience the timeless magic of West Side Story in this electrifying production that pays homage to the genius collaboration of Stephen Sondheim’s poignant lyrics and Leonard Bernstein’s unforgettable music. Set against the backdrop of 1950s New York City, this iconic tale of love and rivalry takes center stage as two young lovers from opposing gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, navigate the tumultuous streets. With Sondheim’s lyrical mastery and Bernstein’s sweeping compositions, every note and word comes alive in a symphony of emotions, showcasing the power of love and the tragic consequences of hate. Take advantage of this spectacular performance that brings Broadway’s finest to life in a way only Sondheim and Bernstein can.
The Boys in the Band
June 6–23, 2024
By Mart Crowley
The Classic Theatre of San Antonio in the Cellar Theater
The Boys in the Band is a groundbreaking play that delves into the complexities of identity and relationships within the gay community. Set against a birthday party in 1960s New York City, it brings together a diverse group of friends whose shared celebration exposes hidden truths, long-held secrets, and the struggles they face in a society that stigmatizes the gay experience. With sharp wit and raw emotion, this thought-provoking play by Mart Crowley provides a powerful exploration of self-acceptance, friendship, and the enduring quest for authenticity. The Boys in the Band is an iconic work that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Summer Family Musical To Be Announced
July 12–Aug. 4, 2024
Russell Hill Rogers Theater
Subscription and Flex Passes Information for The Public Theater of San Antonio
The 5-Show subscriptions for the 2023–24 Season in the Russell Hill Rogers Theater will be available until October 29. After that date, only 3-Show Flex Passes will be available. Subscriptions for five shows start at $125, a savings of 50% OFF regular adult tickets. Flex Passes for three shows offer a savings of 30% OFF regular adult tickets. Youth Passes are also available. To purchase a 5-show subscription for the Russell Hill Rogers Theater or to learn more about savings, visit www.thepublicsa.org/subscriptions.
Single Ticket Information for The Public Theater of San Antonio
Single tickets for all productions will be available on Tuesday, October 2. Ticket prices with fees included for Russell Hill Rogers Theater are $50 (Adult), $35 (Military/Student/Older Adults 60+, First-Responders), and $20 (Child Under 12) are available online at www.thepublicsa.org or by phone at (210) 733-7258, for additional information about 20% OFF with a group sales of 8 or more, email boxoffice@thepublicsa.org. The Russell Hill Rogers Theater is wheelchair accessible.
Ticket Information for The Classic Theatre of San Antonio
Tickets for The Classic Theatre of San Antonio in the Cellar Theater are $39 (Adult), $35 (Military, Older Adults 60+, First-Responders), and $24 (Students) are available online at www.classictheatre.org or by phone at (210) 589-8450. The Cellar Theater is wheelchair accessible.
