On Our Stages

Tony Award Winner!

CAROLINE, OR CHANGE

September 18-November 9, 2008
Kleberg Stage

Book by Tony Kushner
Music by Jeanine Tesori
Directed by Dave Steakley

Starring JANIS STINSON from ZACH's productions of It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues and the hit musical Crowns!

Caroline works as a maid for a Jewish family in Louisiana. When her employers tell her she can keep the change she finds in their eight-year-old son’s pockets, they set in motion an emotional series of events that will alter both Caroline and their family forever. Filled with lush, stirring music, this groundbreaking musical from the author of Angels in America and the composer of Thoroughly Modern Millie has been hailed as a major milestone in American musical theatre.

“The first great piece of musical theatre of the 21st century... every bit as smart as Sondheim and every bit as emotionally compelling as Rodgers and Hammerstein.” – Boston Globe

*This project has been made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts as part of American Masterpieces: Three Centuries of Artistic Genius.

Last Stop Before Broadway!

LET ME DOWN EASY

January 22-February 15, 2009
Kleberg Stage

Written and performed by Anna Deavere Smith
Directed by Stephen Wadsworth

Acclaimed actress and playwright Anna Deavere Smith returns to ZACH’s stage with the pre-Broadway run of her new play Let Me Down Easy – a fully staged production based on the interviews Ms. Smith developed at ZACH. Channeling the dramatically different experiences of her interview subjects, from survivors of the Rwandan genocide to the head coach of the University of Texas football team, Ms. Smith captures a grace on stage that illuminates the resourcefulness of the human spirit.

“Anna Deavere Smith is the most exciting individual in American theatre!” – Newsweek

To learn more about Anna Deavere Smith check out a 2006 interview in The Austin Chronicle.

World Premiere!

SHOOTING STAR

February 12-April 5, 2009
Whisenhunt Stage

Written & Directed by Steven Dietz

From one of America’s most produced and beloved playwrights (and the director of ZACH’s hit play Doubt) comes the world premiere of Steven Dietz’s new romantic-comedy Shooting Star. Two ex-lovers – one from Austin and one from Boston – unexpectedly reunite after 20 years while snowed in at a Midwestern airport. In time for Valentine’s Day, this delicious, bittersweet comedy has great heart with an appeal to the romantic in all of us.

"Dietz’s writing supplies what’s missing from most modern comedy:  character, setting, worship of language, respect for the audience, and distinctive authorial intelligence!"  – Seattle Weekly

Featuring a Live Musical Score!

THE GRAPES OF WRATH

March 12-May 10, 2009
Kleberg Stage

By Frank Galati from the novel by John Steinbeck
Directed by Dave Steakley

Re-envisioned by Chicago’s famed Steppenwolf Theatre Company to international acclaim, this Tony Award-Winning play tells the story of the Joad family’s exodus from the dust bowl in Oklahoma to a new life in California in search of land, jobs, and dignity. With an epic cast, stunning theatricality, and an evocative musical score inspired by Woody Guthrie and the music of the Great Depression performed live by a four piece band, this is a deeply moving affirmation of the human spirit and highlight of the new season.

“Majestic...leaves one feeling that the generosity of spirit Steinbeck saw in a brutal country is not so much lost as waiting once more to be found.” – The New York Times

Live! on ZACH's Intimate Stage

LOVE, JANIS

May 28-August 30, 2009
Kleberg Stage

Conceived, adapted & directed by Randal Myler
Inspired by the book by Laura Joplin

Starring ANDRA MITROVICH in an exclusive engagement in ZACH's production.

The most requested show in ZACH’s history is back! Selected by Janis’ sister Laura Joplin as the original star of the Off-Broadway and national tour of Love, Janis, Andra Mitrovich returns home to ZACH’s stage to channel Janis Joplin as only she can! The life and music of the rock-n-roll icon explodes onto the stage in this dynamic rock musical that offers a glimpse at Janis’ soul through the letters she wrote home and the songs she made famous, like “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of my Heart,” and “Mercedes Benz.”

“Best Actress in a Musical!” Winner for Love, Janis
– Austin Critics’ Table Awards

11th Hit Year At ZACH!

THE SANTALAND DIARIES

November 28, 2008-January 11, 2009
Whisenhunt Stage

Written by David Sedaris
Adapted for the Stage by Joe Mantello
Directed by Dave Steakley
November 28, 2008 - January 4, 2009

Our little Macy’s elf knows a thing or two about faking the Yuletide spirit. But you won’t be faking a good time when your sides split during David Sedaris’ wickedly funny The Santaland Diaries. Sedaris’ comedy tells the real-life story of Sedaris’ tour of duty as the elf Crumpet, and what it takes to juggle tots and tottering Santas during a painfully festive time of the year. A laugh ‘til you cry evening of merrily subversive entertainment to delight adult audiences.

“Martin Burke is the funniest person in Texas!” – Austin American-Statesman

Austin's Holiday Family Musical!

ROCKIN' CHRISTMAS PARTY

November 28, 2008-January 4, 2009
Kleberg Stage

Created and Directed by Dave Steakley
Musical Direction by Lyn Koening
November 28 - December 28, 2008

Rockin’ Christmas Party reigns as one of Austin’s longest-running traditions. Bigger, brighter and merrier than ever, our award-winning cast sure knows how to put the Christmas spirit in your heart – and your booty! – as they shake, rattle and roll down Santa Claus Lane. It’s great fun for the whole family, but get your tickets early because seats go fast for this wildly popular holiday shindig. For all ages! Now booking holiday parties, too!

Winner! “Best Musical!” – Austin Critics’ Table Awards

2009 Summer Family Musical!

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2

Coming in June 2009

By Peter Barsocchini

School’s out and summer fun awaits as the smash hit Disney Channel Movie sequel High School Musical 2 comes to life in a dazzling, live stage production. Stellar songs, and awesome dancing will sweep you away with contagious “Wildcat Fever!” Join Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan and their friends from East High for an all new adventure at a rockin’ country club.

Secure your family’s tickets now with your subscription order to get the best seats!

“More than enough to get you dancing in the aisles!”
– The Austin Chronicle