Monthly Archives: June 2025

June 11, 2025 · 5:39 pm

Cincinnati Arts Association Announces Its CAA PRESENTS! 2025-26 Season

Celebrating Connection, Wonder, and Cultural Vibrancy
Milestone Season Marks the 30th Anniversary of the Aronoff Center

[CINCINNATI, OH] – The Cincinnati Arts Association (CAA) is pleased to announce its CAA PRESENTS! 2025-26 Season, which reflects the organization’s deep commitment to presenting performances that spark imagination, bridge generations, and celebrate the richness of global cultures. The milestone season marks the 30th anniversary of the Aronoff Center, which opened in October 1995.

With events that range from beloved children’s stories brought to life on stage (Dog Man: The Musical) and sensory-friendly performances that prompt the imagination (TREE, A World in Itself) to globally acclaimed performers (Ndlovu Youth Choir, Mariachi Garibaldi, and Complexions Contemporary Ballet), the season invites audiences to experience the world through music, movement, and storytelling.

This season embraces accessibility, family engagement, and educational impact, as seen through daytime education shows and community-driven events. From the nostalgic charm of The Sound of Music performed by the Salzburg Marionette Theatre to the urban energy of 360 Allstars, the programming brings together traditional and contemporary expression to foster joy, empathy, and shared cultural appreciation with our diverse audiences.

CAA PRESENTS! 2025-26 SEASON

Dog Man: The Musical
Saturday, October 4, 2025 – 2:00 PM & 6:30 PM
Sunday, October 5, 2025 – 2:00 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale now

Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring an exciting book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila, music by Brad Alexander, and original direction and choreography by Jen Wineman. Recommended for ages 6+. 

Twilight In Concert
Tuesday, October 28, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale now

Experience the legendary romance saga with this epic film-to-concert event, featuring the original movie accompanied by a sensational live band on stage and an enchanting candlelit atmosphere.

Twilight In Concert offers a unique opportunity for fans to relive the story that started it all in a cinematic live experience like no other. An exceptional twelve-piece ensemble of outstanding rock and orchestral musicians will take the stage to perform the beloved film score in perfect synchronization with the original movie, presented in its entirety on a full-size cinema screen. Be captivated by the magical atmosphere as over a thousand twinkling candles illuminate the grand stage, creating an ambiance that sets the stage for a truly romantic journey.

Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico
Tuesday, December 2, 2025 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale Tuesday, June 10 at 10:00 AM

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande invite you to celebrate the holiday season with Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico! Named for the beloved Andalusian Christmas Carol, this vibrant show weaves cherished Mexican traditions into a magical story of the season. Through the joyous rhythms of “Bells Upon Bells” and the colorful spectacle of Mexican dance, Christmas in Mexico captures the heartwarming reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s journey. You’ll experience the spirit of Posadas, the majesty of the Reyes Magos, and the thrill of breaking piñatas. Join Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and Ballet Folklorico del Rio Grande for an unforgettable program where every note and dance step embodies the rich cultural tapestry of Christmas in Mexico.

Christmas Together with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith & CeCe Winans
Friday, December 5, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale now

Celebrate the magic of the season with three Grammy® Award-winning Gospel Music Hall of Fame members — Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and CeCe Winans. The highly anticipated Christmas Together Tour will feature selections spanning the artists’ expansive Christmas repertoires and combine the vast collection of their traditional classics and critically acclaimed holiday albums. This tour marks the first time Grant and Smith have been joined by Winans for a holiday concert since she originally appeared on their 1998 Christmas tour.

The Jokers of Magic
Saturday, January 24, 2026 – 4:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Aronoff Center – Jarson-Kaplan Theater
On sale Tuesday, June 10 at 10:00 AM 

Introducing… The Jokers of Magic – the irreverent, laugh-your-butt-off night of comedy and magic you didn’t know you needed (but trust us, you do). Armed with credits from America’s Got Talent, Penn & Teller’s Fool Us, and a few places in which it might technically be illegal to perform, these slick tricksters will blow your mind and swindle their way into your heart in a no-holds-barred evening of tricks, lies, and laughs. It’s like SNL and Whose Line Is It Anyway? had a love child and sent it to Hogwarts!

Ndlovu Youth Choir
Friday, February 27, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale Tuesday, June 10 at 10:00 AM

Since bursting onto the world stage in 2009, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has become one of South Africa’s brightest musical exports. Combining vibrant choreography, rich vocal harmonies, and infectious energy, this extraordinary group transforms every performance into a celebration of life and resilience. What began as an after-school program for orphaned and vulnerable children has grown into a global phenomenon.

The choir gained international acclaim as finalists on America’s Got Talent, where their uplifting performances won hearts worldwide, earning praise from Simon Cowell and a record deal with Sony Music. Blending traditional South African sounds with pop, rock, jazz, and EDM, the Ndlovu Youth Choir brings fresh life to songs like Toto’s “Africa,” Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You,” and U2’s “Beautiful Day.” Their concerts are more than just music – they’re a message of hope, unity, and the power of young voices to change the world.

Salzburg Marionette Theatre: The Sound of Music
Friday, March 6, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Jarson-Kaplan Theater
On sale Tuesday, June 10 at 10:00 AM

Step into a world where imagination knows no limits and art comes to life in the most captivating way. For over a century, the Salzburg Marionette Theatre has enchanted audiences of all ages with its breathtaking performances. Among its timeless productions is The Sound of Music, the marionette stage version of the iconic Broadway musical, featuring its unforgettable melodies. This world-renowned theatre immerses you in a magical realm, where marionettes perform with the grace and emotion of living actors.

Complexions Contemporary Ballet: STAR DUST
Thursday, March 19, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale Tuesday, June 10 at 10:00 AM

Led by dance icons Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, Complexions Contemporary Ballet has awakened audiences to a new, exciting genre with their singular approach of reinventing dance and contemporary ballet. Armed with a rich Alvin Ailey lineage and a cadre of sixteen stunning dancers, Complexions has been hailed as a “matchless American dance company” by the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The dance program opens with favorites from Retro-Suite, a series of short works that celebrate the company’s thirty years. The second half is STAR DUST, an utterly transfixing tribute to the life and music of David Bowie, full of glitter and glam. This ballet takes an array of his hits and lays a visual imprint, inspired by his unique personas and his restless invention artistically to create a rock opera-style production in his honor.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale Friday, June 20 at 10:00 AM

This immersive, concert-style theater show chronicles the amazing journey shared by the folk-rock duo Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. It tells the story from their humble beginnings as Tom & Jerry to their incredible success as one of the best-selling music groups of the 1960s to their dramatic split in 1970. It culminates with the famous “The Concert in Central Park” reunion in 1981 with more than half-a-million fans in attendance. Using state-of-the-art video projection, photos, and original film footage, the show also features a full live band performing all of their hits, including “Mrs. Robinson” (featured in the 1967 film The Graduate), “Cecilia,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Homeward Bound,” and many more.

TREE
Saturday, April 25, 2026 – 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM
Sunday, April 26, 2026 – 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM **
Aronoff Center – Fifth Third Bank Theater
On sale:  TBA 

Would you like to experience the magical world of trees and feel the cool morning mist? Settle into mama bird’s cozy nest while she warms her luminous clutch of eggs. Plants, insects, and animals visit, accompanied by gentle melodies and rhythmic music. As evening falls, you’ll rest under a rising moon, stars, and shimmering Milky Way, gathering strength to spread your wings like a fledgling bird of light.   

TREE is a multi-sensory, interactive universe enveloped in soft light, music, and silence, where five characters continually adapt to meet the needs of their audience.

** TREE was created for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and adapted for children with intellectual disabilities and/or reduced mobility. The Sunday, April 26, 3:00 PM performance – titled TREE: A World in Itself – is intentionally designed to be smaller and suitable for guests with ASD who may require additional attention or a less stimulating environment. Seating is extremely limited. 

360 ALLSTARS
Thursday, May 7, 2026 – 7:30 PM
Aronoff Center – Procter & Gamble Hall
On sale Tuesday, June 10 at 10:00 AM

A phenomenal physical performance exploring all forms of rotation, 360 ALLSTARS connects the street with the elite to deliver a supercharged urban circus. Boasting a stellar cast of World Champion and World Record-holding artists and athletes, 360 ALLSTARS is a spectacular fusion of extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture. Add to this a stunning live soundtrack delivered by award-winning musicians, coupled with spectacular video projections, and 360 ALLSTARS is as aurally exciting as it is visually astounding. A magnificent, colorful, and astonishing expression of a generation that has reinvented the circus, 360 ALLSTARS is a revolutionary production that will leave you dizzy with excitement! 

TICKETS & INFORMATION

ON SALE NOW: Dog Man: The Musical; Twilight In Concert; Christmas Together with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith & CeCe Winans 

ON SALE TUESDAY, JUNE 10 AT 10:00 AM: Campana Sobre Campana: Christmas in Mexico; Jokers of Magic; Ndlovu Youth Choir; Salzburg Marionette Theatre: The Sound of Music; Complexions Contemporary Ballet: STAR DUST; 360 ALLSTARS

ON SALE FRIDAY, JUNE 20 AT 10:00 AM: The Simon & Garfunkel Story

ON-SALE DATE TBA: TREE

Tickets

  • www.CincinnatiArts.org 
  • (513) 621-ARTS [2787]
  • Aronoff Center Ticket Office, 650 Walnut Street, Downtown
  • Group Discount Tickets (10 or more): (513) 977-4155
  • Ticket prices include all service fees.

Aronoff Center Ticket Office Hours    

  • Monday-Friday:  10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Through intermission of the last show on performance days

Cincinnati Arts Association SPONSORS 

The Cincinnati Arts Association is supported [in part] by the Ohio Arts Council, which receives support from the State of Ohio and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Season Sponsors: AMERITAS (Founding Season Sponsor), MIAMI UNIVERSITY, ARTSWAVE, LOCAL 12 WKRC-TV, The P&G FUND of The Greater Cincinnati Foundation

SEASON PRESENTING SPONSORS: 21C Museum Hotel, Bahl & Gaynor, Cincinnati Herald, CityBeat, Fairfield Inn & Suites Cincinnati Uptown/University Area, Harlan Graphics, Heidelberg Distributing, Kinley Cincinnati, Pepsi, ProSource, Skyline Chili, TriHealth

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June 10, 2025 · 6:51 pm

THE TRAGEDIE OF MACBETH Runs July 10-13

THE TRAGEDIE OF MACBETH: The Blessed Feast of Holinshed
Southbank Shakespeare
July 10-13
Thomas More University Observatory Lawn [Crestview Hills]

Directed by Timothy Andrew Leonard

Cast: David Goble as Macbeth & Elizabeth Durham as Lady Macbeth
Dutiful Chorus: Parker Culp, Sophia DiPuccio, Natalie Hayslett, Jun Holubeck, Ashley Matt, Joe Mitchell, Regan Utrup & Anna Verderber

FREE Performance – Estimated to have been written and first performed in 1606, The Scottish Play has been a centerpiece of Shakespeare’s canon since its inception. The tale of witchcraft, prophecy, and bloody ambition has fueled countless ghost stories over the years, and is sure to fill countless more as years continue to fold over and over. Join us this summer as we travel thousands of years divorced from Shakespeare’s pen, and enter an age when the context dividing secular and religious scripture has been completely forgotten. Witness the small nomadic tribe pass through our land as they make their yearly sacrifice to ensure successful migration to more fertile lands, and pray to their Gods for a bountiful harvest.

  • Thu-Sun, July 10-13 at 7:30pm

Official page |

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June 10, 2025 · 6:49 pm

BURGERTOWN: The Musical Runs July 9-Aug. 3

BURGERTOWN: The Musical
Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre
July 9-Aug. 3
[East Price Hill]

By Christine Jones, Ken Jones & Jamey Strawn

Directed by Ken Jones & Christine Jones
Music directed by Jamey Strawn
Choregraphed by Maddie Jones

Cast: Dain Paige as Sal Spumoni, Josh Galloway as Danny, Chloe Hedrick as Patty & Delaney ’Toole as Jan
Ensemble: Mabrey Rice, Marlo D’Ascenzo, Emma Hackworth, Zach Petrie & Issiah Current

BurgerTown is a delicious musical comedy set in the Windy City. When Danny O’Riley, a timid fry cook accidentally invents the hottest new craze in the fast-food world; the Triangle Burger, he takes the humble BurgerTown diner from its lowly place beneath the tracks of the Fullerton train station to soaring new heights. Along the way, Danny encounters bad guys, big business, and beautiful women. While he struggles to hold onto his sanity as he chases his dreams for success, romance, and a fast-food fortune.

  • Wed-Thu, July 9-10 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, July 11-12 at 8pm
  • Sun, July 13 at 2pm
  • Wed-Thu, July 16-17 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, July 18-19 at 8pm
  • Sun, July 20 at 2pm
  • Wed-Thu, July 23-24 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, July 25-26 at 8pm
  • Sun, July 27 at 2pm
  • Wed-Thu, July 30-31 at 7:30pm
  • Fri-Sat, Aug. 1-2 at 8pm
  • Sun, Aug. 3 at 2pm

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June 10, 2025 · 6:49 pm

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati Announces 40th Anniversary 2025–2026 Season

(Cincinnati, OH) Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati (ETC), the region’s premiere theatre, is delighted to announce its 2025–2026 season, celebrating its 40th Anniversary. The season includes the revival of the rock musical that redefined musicals, the sequel to ETC’s bestselling show, a gripping and lyrical one-person play, a witty and heartfelt comedy, and a nostalgic coming-of-age musical based on true events in Cincinnati.

“After 40 years, the dreams of Ensemble Theatre’s founders are still being realized today for creating a community of local artists, directors, and designers,” says Producing Artistic Director D. Lynn Meyers. “To celebrate Ensemble’s success and tenacity for staying in OTR, Next to Normal is a story that doesn’t get old and it’s one I felt needed to be retold. In 2011, we were the only theatre in the country to receive the rights to production it when it was still on its national tour, so we’re thrilled to bring it back to the stage again 14 years later.”

About the Plays

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati opens its 40th year with the regional musical revival of the fan favorite Next to Normal, returning to the ETC stage September 13 – October 5, 2025. This Tony- and Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical delves into the heart of a family shattered by mental illness but held together by love. Diana Goodman, a suburban mom battling bipolar disorder, struggles to connect with her ambitious daughter and devoted husband as they navigate the chaos of Diana’s condition. With a soaring, unforgettable score by Tom Kitt and poignant book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, Next to Normal is an unflinching, empathetic portrait of resilience, loss, and the pursuit of hope. Hailed by The New York Times as a “transformative” musical, this modern masterpiece is a must-see theatrical event. A runaway hit on Broadway—acclaimed by critics around the world—Next to Normal is a profoundly human story of struggle, perseverance, and hope.

Then, the much-anticipated sequel to ETC’s bestselling show of all time arrives this holiday season with the world premiere of It’s Fritz from Cincinnati native Zina Camblin and ETC composer David Kisor, December 3 – 31, 2025. Everyone knows Fiona the hippo, but her little brother Fritz is still figuring out who he wants to be. In this new family-friendly musical, Hippo Cove’s newest arrival is ready to wade out of the background and into his own big moment. Having a world-famous big sister, though, makes Fritz wonder if there’s any spotlight left for him. When he sets out to find what makes him special, the path isn’t always clear, but with some help from the zoo’s colorful cast of animals, Fritz discovers that standing out starts by listening, learning, and leaning on those who believe in you. Full of humor and heart—and a few muddy puddles along the way!—this is a story about family, finding your place, and the courage it takes to create your own splash.

Next, ETC presents the regional premiere drama Where We Stand by Donneta Lavinia Grays, from January 31 – February 22, 2026. What does community mean? And what do we owe to one another? In a town running low on compassion, a mysterious outsider stands before their community—before us—to confess a life-altering choice made at the crossroads of desperation and desire. A gripping blend of fable and modern-day storytelling, this stirring, poetic solo piece invites the audience to become part of the story, weighing mercy against consequence in real time. Where We Stand explores the story of an individual driven to the brink, challenging our understanding of forgiveness, our sense of mercy, and who is truly worthy of either.

Then, ETC presents the regional premiere comedy—yes, comedy—Fourteen Funerals by Eric Pfeffinger, March 21 – April 12, 2026. When Sienna receives a cryptic call about the untimely deaths of distant relatives in Blissfield, Indiana, she finds herself unexpectedly tasked with delivering eulogies for family members she’s never met. What begins as a peculiar obligation soon transforms into a journey of self-discovery and unexpected friendship with Millie, the quirky funeral home receptionist. This witty and heartfelt new play explores themes of identity, connection, and the stories we inherit. With sharp dialogue and poignant moments, Fourteen Funerals offers a comedic yet touching look at the ties that bind us—sometimes even after death.

ETC’s 2025 – 2026 season closes with the regional premiere musical The House on Watch Hill by Richard Oberacker and Robert Taylor, the Tony-nominated creators of Bandstand. Based on true events and full of nostalgic charm, The House on Watch Hill, playing May 9 – 31, 2026, is a thrilling new theatrical experience that’s funny, nostalgic, deeply moving, and maybe just a little spooky! It’s summer 1984, and in a quiet Cincinnati suburb, a group of teen misfits has one mission: to build the best haunted house their neighborhood has ever seen. Led by 14-year-old horror fanatic Patrick, the team transforms a grand neighborhood home on Watch Hill into something truly spine-tingling—but along the way, they confront fears that are far more real than any monster they can dream up. Set against the backdrop of Cold War anxieties, latchkey independence, and a soundtrack pulsing with original ‘80s-inspired music, The House on Watch Hill is a heart-pounding, heartwarming coming-of-age musical about friendship, loss, identity, and the power of imagination. A must-see for fans of The Goonies, Stranger Things, and scrappy underdogs everywhere, this new musical captures the messy, magical moment between childhood and adulthood—when you’re old enough to know the world is scary but brave enough to face it anyway.

Subscriptions On Sale Now

Subscriptions to the 2025-2026 Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati season are on sale now. Packages can be purchased by calling the box office at (513) 421-3555.

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 2025–2026 Season Presenting Sponsor is the LKC Foundation.

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is supported, in part, by the generosity of community contributions to the ArtsWave Campaign.

The Ohio Arts Council helps fund Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati also receives funding from the Shubert Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati is a professional theatre dedicated to producing world and regional premieres of works that often explore compelling social issues. We fulfill our mission through our stage productions and educational outreach programs that enlighten, enliven, enrich, and inspire our audiences.

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June 10, 2025 · 6:47 pm

CFF25: My Fringe Show Rankings

The question I get asked most by people with limited time and resources is, which shows are a “must see.” And I give them my bias answer, based on how I reacted to the shows. Please understand that differences between shows in the rankings can be infinitesimal. And I guarantee everyone’s list is different and just as valid.

And if you do decide to attend, I highly recommend you look at all the options. Aside from the fact that there are still plenty of shows I just haven’t seen yet. If a show sounds interesting to you, I highly encourage you to see it. Grab a friend, split a flex pass and hit three shows. You never know what you might discover. Happy Fringing.
-Rob

Updated 6/10/25

My Rankings

  1. ELEANOR’S STORY: LIFE AFTER WAR | Review |
  2. TEA TIME | Review |
  3. A CABARET OF LEGENDS | Review |
  4. MUTTNIK
  5. AMERICAN’T
  6. WHISPERS OF THE DEEP | Review |
  7. THE FAMILY CROW: A Murder Mystery
  8. Z IS FOR ZEBRA
  9. STUCK
  10. CLOCKWORK O’FRINGE
  11. EVERY GOOD STORY ENDS WITH ONE | Review |
  12. 1 GAY WEDDING AND ABSOLUTELY NO FUNERALS
  13. ARSENIC AND OLD SPICE | Review |
  14. WINNING: WINNING
  15. TRUMPETS! A Pretty Gay Video Game Play
  16. BUBBLEGUM
  17. TRAITORS

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