After a successful run of outdoor performances this summer, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre is returning to its beloved downtown stage.
The Rep just announced its upcoming 2021-2022 season lineup, which includes a family-friendly holiday show and productions throughout the spring.
"After what feels like an eternity, we are so excited to welcome you back to The Rep!" says Will Trice, The Rep's executive artistic director. "Our upcoming three-show mainstage season (and special family add-on experience) represent what we’ve missed most about theater – contagious laughter, gorgeous music, engaging stories and shared fun with family and friends."
Without further ado, here's The Rep's 2021-2022 season.
"A Charlie Brown Christmas"
Dec. 3-23, 2021
By Charles M. Schulz, Bill Melendez, Lee Mendelson, and Eric Schaeffer
"The whole Peanuts gang comes to life in this stage adaptation of the classic TV special, featuring a fantastic, jazz-infused score. For matinee performances, come early or stay after — The Rep building will be alive with kid-friendly holiday activities (did someone say Santa?) and unique gift shopping. Between the nostalgia and the fun, we guarantee you will leave feeling the holiday spirit."
"Designing Women"
Jan. 18 - Feb. 6, 2022
By Linda Bloodworth Thomason
"From the creators of the smash-hit television series comes a world-premiere comedy bringing Julia, Suzanne, Mary Jo and Charlene into our current age. It’s 2020, and the ladies of Sugarbaker’s design firm are as hilarious as ever, responding to their own differences and to the insanity of the world around them. With the same whip-smart and unmistakably Southern brand of humor, this new play proves that nothing unites us like laughter. A co-production with Fayetteville’s TheatreSquared."
"School Girls" or "The African Mean Girls Play"
March 1-20, 2022
By Jocelyn Bioh
"The critically-acclaimed comedy that’s taking the theater world by storm comes to The Rep stage. As the reigning queen bee of Ghana’s most exclusive boarding school, Paulina has her sights on the 1986 Miss Universe pageant. But the arrival of a new transfer student from America changes the game. This fearless comedy confronts our conceptions of self-esteem and beauty; 'ferociously entertaining, as heartwarming as it is hilarious' (The Hollywood Reporter)."
"Into the Woods"
April 19 - May 22, 2022
Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by James Lapine
"Little Red has strayed far from the path, Jack’s found a second beanstalk, Prince Charming’s eyes are wandering and there’s a witch living next door. Stephen Sondheim’s most popular musical turns the world of fairy tales topsy-turvy, reminding us that granted wishes often bring complications. Filled with exquisite music and brilliant lyrics, this innovative new production is sure to enchant as it ventures beyond 'happily ever after.'"
Of course, The Rep is following the latest public health recommendations concerning the coronavirus pandemic and will announce safety protocols closer to each show.
Ticket subscriptions to the three-production spring season and flex pass tickets go on sale Wednesday, Sept. 15. "A Charlie Brown Chirstmas" is being offered as an add-on to season subscriptions and flex pass purchases at a discounted rate.
The Rep Outdoors series is currently in session with "Primating" at the Little Rock Zoo through Aug. 29 and "The Fantasticks in Concert" at Murray Park on Oct. 3.
For more information, visit The Rep website and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest.
