As summer gives way to fall, area theaters launch a new season with world premieres, professional productions and musical celebrations. From musical tributes to original comedies and new plays, September offers the first glimpse of another promising theater season.
“Anything Goes,” Sept. 3–6
Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti.
Professional Youth Theatre of Michigan opens September with Cole Porter’s timeless musical comedy Anything Goes. Set aboard an ocean liner bound for England, the high-energy production follows a colorful cast of passengers through a whirlwind of romance, mistaken identities and comedic antics. Audiences can also enjoy beloved songs including I Get a Kick Out of You, You’re the Top and the show’s iconic title number.
“Echo’s Fragments,” Sept. 11–21
The Back Office Studio, 13 N. Washington St., Ypsilanti.
The Back Office Studio presents Echo’s Fragments, an original production exploring memory, identity and the lasting impact of the past. Through intimate storytelling and interconnected narratives, the play examines how experiences, relationships and personal histories continue to shape the present.
“Code Five,” Sept. 25–Oct. 4
Forge Theatre, 3000 Packard Road, Suite B, Ann Arbor.
Forge Theatre presents Code Five, a contemporary drama that explores the lives of first responders and the challenges they face both on and off the job. Blending emotional storytelling with moments of humor and tension, the production examines the bonds, sacrifices and resilience that emerge in times of crisis.
“Queen,” Sept. 11–13
The Encore Musical Theatre.
The Encore kicks off its Tribute Concert Series by celebrating one of rock’s most legendary bands. Featuring powerhouse vocals and theatrical staging, the tribute band brings classics including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love” and “We Will Rock You” to the stage in an energetic concert experience.
“Flying Cardboard Theater,” Sept. 13
Ypsilanti Freighthouse.
Families can enjoy imaginative puppet theater as Detroit’s Flying Cardboard Theater presents original stories featuring handcrafted puppets, inventive staging and interactive storytelling designed for audiences of all ages.
RELATED: Arthouse Revival at Michigan Theater in September
“Together Again: Celebrating Our Community & Local Talent,” Sept. 17
Ann Arbor Civic Theatre.
Before its fall productions begin, Ann Arbor Civic Theatre hosts an evening celebrating local performers with musical numbers, theatrical performances and a preview of the company’s upcoming production of “Jekyll & Hyde,” opening in October. The event offers audiences an opportunity to meet local artists and get a taste of the season ahead.
“Sofa Stories: Stories on Stage and Screen,” Sept. 18
Ypsilanti Freighthouse.
This multimedia performance combines live theatrical storytelling with short films exploring housing insecurity and community resilience, creating an evening that blends documentary filmmaking with the immediacy of live performance.
“Bastard,” beginning Sept. 24
Purple Rose Theatre Company
The Purple Rose begins its 2026–27 season with the world premiere of “Bastard,” written by award-winning journalist, author and musician Devin Scillian. The dramedy centers on two estranged brothers forced to confront family secrets following their mother’s death. Filled with humor, heart, and unexpected revelations, the production runs through Dec. 20.
“Maestro,” Sept. 25–Oct. 18
Theatre NOVA
Theatre NOVA opens its season with the world premiere of Michael Alan Herman’s “Maestro,” a witty period comedy set in 18th-century Vienna. When the royal maestro dies, two ambitious composers battle for the coveted position, leading to romance, duels, and plenty of sharp humor. Described as Amadeus meets Bridgerton, the production continues Theatre NOVA’s tradition of showcasing new works by contemporary playwrights.
Donna Marie Iadipaolo is a writer, journalist, and State of Michigan certified teacher, since 1990. She has written for national publications like The Village Voice, Ear Magazine of New Music, Insurance & Technology, and TheStreet.
She is now writing locally for many publications, including Current Magazine, Ann Arbor Family, and the Ann Arbor Independent. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she graduated with an honors bachelor’s degree and three teacher certificate majors: mathematics, social sciences, English. She also earned three graduate degrees in Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Education Specialist Degree.
