BANGOR, MAINE: Penobscot Theatre Company has announced its 47th season, featuring two murder mysteries and an adults only Dr. Seuss parody around the holidays.
“We have great confidence in the future of Penobscot Theatre Company and we’re eager to share an extraordinary line-up,” said producing artistic director Bari Newport in a statement. “Of course, the health and safety of our artists and audience are our highest priority, and we’ll remain closely attuned to public health guidelines in the coming months. Improvisation is at the heart of our craft and if we must adjust our plans, we will; but at this time, based on all the information at our disposal, we’re proceeding cautiously, but optimistically.”
The season will open with Audrey Cefaly’s Maytag Virgin (Sept. 10-27), about a friendship that leads to a journey of self-discovery and healing for two new neighbors. Newport will direct.
Next up will be Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express (Oct. 15-Nov. 8), adapted for the stage by Ken Ludwig. When an American tycoon dies on the Orient Express, it’s up to detective Hercule Poirot to solve the case. Tricia A. Hobbs will direct.
The holidays will feature Miracle on 34th Street: A Live Musical Radio Play (Dec. 3-27), with original lyrics, music, and arrangements by Jon Lorenz, and Who’s Holiday (Dec. 10-27), by Matthew Lombardo. Who’s Holiday, an adults only offering, follows Cindy Lou Who at 40 as she recounts the fateful night she met the Grinch.
Following will be Shear Madness (Jan. 21-Feb. 14, 2021), by Paul Pörtner, which returns to Penobscot Theatre after a sold out 2018 run. Scott Levy will direct this mystery about a murder committed at a hairstyling salon.
The season will continue with Becoming Dr. Ruth (March 11-28, 2021), by Mark St. Germain, which takes a look at the journey of radio and television sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer.
Next will be Bright Star (April 22-May 16), with music, lyrics, and story by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. Dominick Varney will direct and choreograph this story of love and redemption set against the backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and 40s.
The season will close with 9 to 5 the Musical (June 10-July 11, 2021), with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick. This musical about friendship and revenge was originally scheduled to close out the theatre’s 2019-20 season.
Penobscot Theatre Company, founded in 1973, performs at the history Bangor Opera House and is the only year-round, professional regional theatre in Northern Main
