Tag Archives: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

August 25, 2025 · 6:06 pm

ETC Opens 40th Anniversary 2025–2026 Season with Award-Winning Musical NEXT TO NORMAL, Sep. 13–Oct. 5, 2025

(Cincinnati, OH) Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati (ETC) kicks off its 40th Anniversary Season with the regional musical revival of one of its bestselling shows and fan favorite, Next to Normal, returning to ETC’s stage September 13 – October 5, 2025. This Tony Award– and Pulitzer Prize–winning rock musical, with an extraordinary score by Tom Kitt and poignant book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, delves into the heart of a family shattered by mental illness but held together by love. Hailed by The New York Times as a “transformative” musical, this modern masterpiece is a must-see theatrical event. Premiere sponsors are Daniel Brown and Mark Haggard. Directed by D. Lynn Meyers.­­

Diana Goodman is a suburban mom struggling with bipolar disorder. Her daughter, Natalie, is a stressed-out overachiever ready to snap. And Dan, her exhausted architect husband, is determined to keep everything “normal.” As Diana’s symptoms worsen and effective treatment remains elusive, the Goodmans must finally connect and learn how to see each other for who they truly are. A cathartic and empathetic triumph of contemporary musical theatre, Next to Normal features soaring rock music, unforgettable characters, and a gripping, emotionally resonant story that echoes long after the final note.

“This isn’t a remount; this is a reinvention, a revival of the magnificent show we produced 14 years ago,” says Producing Artistic Director D. Lynn Meyers. “We were the first theatre in the country to receive the regional rights to do this show in 2011 and after a hugely successful run, it honestly never occurred to me that we could or would do it again. But for our 40th Anniversary, we wanted to do something from the vault. In a time when there’s so much discord in our world, we needed to stop and focus on what it means to lose, to gain, to make our own choices, and to stay alive. It’s an exceedingly real look at how trauma and grief can change someone and be unapologetic about what it costs to truly love someone.”

About the Cast

Jessica Hendy (Diana) returns to Ensemble Theatre to reprise her role in Next to Normal. She has spent the past twelve years in New York City with her son, Beckett. Recently, her autobiographical one-woman musical, Walking with Bubbles, premiered off-Broadway, earning her a Drama Desk nomination and an Off-Broadway Alliance Award for Best Solo Show. Her credits span four Broadway shows, off-Broadway shows, national tours, regional theatre, and symphony concerts across the country. Her work on Sondheim Unplugged Vol. 3 earned a 2023 Grammy nomination.

Charlie Clark (Dan) was last seen at Ensemble Theatre as Bruce Bechdel in Fun Home, as well as Father in Violet, Don in Rapture, Blister, Burn, Benny in Hands on a Hardbody (2014), Pastor Jay in Luna Gale, Brandon in Next Fall, and Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine in Next to Normal (2011). Other local credits include Church Girls, Take Me Out, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, On Golden Pond, Carousel, Love’s Labour’s Lost, See What I Wanna See, The Full Monty, and Sunday in the Park with George. His Chicago credits include Company (Jeff Award), The Hawkshaws, Into the Woods, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, and Sweeney Todd.  His Twin Cities credits include Crazy for You, Guys and Dolls, Mary Poppins, The Bridges of Madison County, and Merrily We Roll Along. 

Making their ETC debuts in this production are Julianne Ferguson (Natalie), Carter Minor (Henry), Rory Sheridan (Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine), and Jameson Zoller (Gabe). 

Production team: Brian c. Mehring (Resident Scenic & Lighting Designer), Steve Goers (Music Director), Patti James (Choreographer), Hannah Dringenburg (Costume Designer), Jake Tillmann (Sound Designer), Shannon Rae Lutz (Properties Curator and Design Assistant), and Jacob Dowell (Technical Director). Production Stage Manager is Margot Whitney. Assistant Stage Manager is Lexi Muller.

Performance Information
Performances Tuesday-Saturday at 7:30 pm; Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 pm. A complete calendar of show dates and times is available at www.ensemblecincinnati.org.

Ticket Prices
Tickets start at $22 for adults; student tickets are $29; and children are $27. Half-Price Rush Tickets: All remaining tickets for the current day’s performance(s) are available two hours prior to each show time for half-price (discount only applies to adult tickets) when purchasing by phone or in person.

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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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August 14, 2025 · 5:22 pm

NEXT TO NORMAL Runs Sept. 13-Oct. 11

NEXT TO NORMAL
Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
Sept. 13-Oct. 11
[Over-the-Rhine]

Cast: Charlie Clark as Dan. Julianne Ferguson as Natalie, Jessica Hendy as Diana, Rory Sheridan as Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine, Carter Minor as Henry & James Zoller as Gabe

One of ETC’s most popular productions returns! Diana Goodman is a suburban mom struggling with bipolar disorder. Her daughter, Natalie, is a stressed-out overachiever ready to snap. And Dan, her exhausted architect husband, is determined to keep everything “normal.” As Diana’s symptoms worsen and effective treatment remains elusive, the Goodmans must finally connect and learn how to see each other for who they truly are. A cathartic and empathetic triumph of contemporary musical theatre, Next to Normal features soaring rock music, unforgettable characters, and a gripping, emotionally resonant story that echoes long after the final note. NEXT TO NORMAL is a powerful portrayal of mental health, loss, and family dynamics. The show contains strong language and explores mature themes, including mental illness, grief, self-harm, and drug use, which may be triggering for some audience members. Please be advised that this production includes flashing lights and strobe effects.

  • In preview Sat, Sept. 13 at 7pm
  • In preview Tue, Sept. 16 at 7pm
  • Wed-Fri, Sept. 17-19 at 7:30pm
  • Sat, Sept. 20 at 2pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun, Sept. 21 at 2pm
  • Tue-Fri, Sept. 23-26 at 7:30pm
  • Sat, Sept. 27 at 2pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun Sept. 28 at 2pm
  • Tue-Fri, Sept. 30-Oct. 3
  • Sat, Oct. 4 at 2pm & 7:30pm
  • Sun, Oct. 5 at 2pm
  • Tue-Thu, Oct. 7-9
  • Sat, Oct. 11 at 2pm & 7:30pm

Official page |

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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 6, 2025 · 8:42 am

2025-2026 Season Announced by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

ETC’s 40th Anniversary Season

Regional Musical Revival
NEXT TO NORMAL
Sept. 13-Oct. 5

World Premiere Family-Friendly Musical
FRITZ: The Musical
Book by Zina Camblin
Music & Lyrics by David Kisor
Dec. 3-31

Regional Premiere Drama
WHERE WE STAND
Jan. 31-Feb. 22, 2026

Regional Premiere Comedy
FOURTEEN FUNERALS
March 21-April 12, 2026

Regional Premiere Musical
THE HOUSE ON WATCH HILL
Book & Lyrics by Richard Oberacker & Robert Taylor
Music by Richard Oberacker
May 9-31, 2026

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June 5, 2025 · 2:17 pm

JAJA’S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynold

JAJA’S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati through June 22nd. I attended the Opening Night performance. 

Brianna Miller as Miriam, Elexis Selmon as Jennifer, Samantha Russell* as Marie, Candice Handy* as Aminata & Keisha L. Kemper as Bea. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

To close out its incredible 2024-2025 season, Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati presents the Regional Premiere of Tony Award-nominated Jaja’s African Hair Braiding by Jocelyn Bioh. Set in the heart of Harlem, a lively community of West African immigrants work together and survive together. While the term “love letter” can be overused in describing a script, there is little doubt that Ms. Bioh is offering us a celebration of African culture and the common bonds those deemed “outsiders” share.

When producing a show celebrating the allure of strong, melanated women, who better to direct than the inimitable Torie Wiggins? And let me tell you, Ms. Wiggins does not make one misstep in her direction: her cast is rock-solid, her use of the playing space is as smooth as a silk press, and her attention to detail is unmatched. Resident Scenic & Lighting Designer Brian c. Mehring along with the work of Properties Curator/Design Assistant Shannon Rae Lutz are to be applauded as well. The set is an absolute work of art and gives off the exact vibe of a busy shop that has been operational for more than a minute.

Huge and well-deserved praise is due to the Costume, Hair, & Wig Designer, Tiara M. Jones. Since the action takes place entirely in Jaja’s hair braiding salon, great hair is paramount. Not only did Ms. Jones create wigs in different stages of braiding (truly flawless work), but a few of the players portray more than one character. In addition, the costume choices are nothing short of brilliant. I think we will all agree Tiara is the actual star of this show – brava!

It is an impossible task to cite any of these performing artists over another, so prepare yourselves for as much as I can squeeze into a review before you lose interest.

A.J. Baldwin (multiple roles) always has the uncanny ability to chameleon herself into any role and turn them into someone you know you know.

Beasley (multiple roles) is absolutely giving character this round and I want more.

Jasimine Bouldin delivers as Ndidi, with a well-executed accent (shout-out to Dialect Coach Debora Crabbe for her work with the entire cast) and her deliberate and precise subtleties.

Burgess Byrd glows as Jaja and owns the stage every moment she graces it. Just when you think Ms. Byrd can’t get any better, she does.

Candice Handy (Aminata) is not only a vision aesthetically, but her entire manner from the way she walks to her facial expressions are a director’s dream.

Keisha L. Kemper (Bea) is impossible to ignore and her adept depiction of her character’s complicated arc is *chef’s kiss”.

Brianna Miller is delightful as Miriam – there is absolutely nothing not to like about her!

Samantha Russell’s Marie is splendidly done; she manages to make the heavy lifting of this central character look easy and that is admirable.

Elexis Selmon as Jennifer changes before the audience’s very eyes (in more ways than one) and she simply gives us “likable” energy.

Samuel Stricklen has his work cut out – not only as the only male performer, but in making each of his characters so wonderfully distinctive. Spoiler alert: he crushes the assignment.

What else can a white girl convey about this show except it is a beautiful thing to see an ensemble of black women who gets to say exactly what they want? This is their time, their laughter, and their heartache; no hiding or dumbing it down for a society who just doesn’t always “get it”. At its very core, Jaja’s is about community, home, and heart.

I was fully engaged in this experience from start to finish and I left the theatre feeling something we do not always get to feel in today’s climate: hope. I implore Cincinnati to sell out this show every single night and to continue to talk about it long after the lights dim on this run.

Click here for more information about the production.

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