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Shows

At WCP/BHCT, every show is an invitation to; laugh, reflect, imagine, and connect. From beloved classics and contemporary favorites to youth productions and bold new stories, our season is built to entertain, inspire, and bring our community together. Whether you’re a longtime patron or discovering us for the first time, each production is brought to life by local talent, passionate volunteers, and a shared love of live theatre. Take a look at what’s coming to our stage and find the show that speaks to you.

Indicates Black Hawk Children's Theatre production.

Sideways Stories From Wayside School

May 15 - 17, 2026

Get ready for a wild adventure at Wayside School! This laugh-out-loud play, inspired by Louis Sachar’s beloved book series, takes you to a school like no other. It's thirty stories high... or is it? But don't be fooled, things are far from ordinary! With teachers turning students into apples and even a mysterious cow hiding in the halls, nothing is quite as it seems. Join us for a zany, fun-filled experience where the unexpected is just part of the day at this wacky, wonderful school. Perfect for families, this show promises to keep everyone guessing and giggling!

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Annie

July 10 - 19, 2026

Leapin’ Lizards! The sun will come out on our stage this summer as Annie, the world’s most beloved family musical, brings its heart and humor to the Cedar Valley. Set in 1930s New York, this timeless tale follows a plucky orphan whose unwavering optimism transforms the lives of everyone she meets. With toe-tapping tunes, lovable characters, and a message of hope that resonates across generations, Annie is a must-see theatrical event for audiences of all ages.

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Frozen: The Broadway Musical

November 20 - December 6, 2026

Step into the enchanted kingdom of Arendelle with Frozen: The Broadway Musical, a dazzling stage adaptation of Disney’s beloved animated film. This theatrical version brings the magic to life as it follows the journey of two royal sisters—Elsa, who hides a dangerous secret, and Anna, whose boundless optimism drives her to reconnect with her estranged sibling. When Elsa’s icy powers accidentally plunge Arendelle into eternal winter, Anna teams up with rugged ice harvester Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and the hilarious snowman Olaf to save the kingdom and discover the true meaning of love. Featuring all the iconic songs from the film like “Let It Go” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”

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Disney's The Lion King, JR

January 22 - 31, 2027

The Lion King, JR follows the story of Simba and reminds us that no matter how far we run, our truest strength comes from family—and from finding the courage to return, take responsibility, and honor those who came before us.

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Come From Away

February 26 - March 7, 2027

Sometimes, family is born not of blood, but of compassion—when a community opens its homes and hearts to strangers in the midst of tragedy. Based on a true story, this is a testament to the extraordinary welcome offered by the small, isolated town of Gander, Newfoundland, when an ordinary day transformed into an unforgettable moment of global unity. On September 11, 2001, 38 planes carrying thousands of people from around the world were unexpectedly diverted to Gander’s airstrip. Faced with the sudden responsibility of hosting the world, the people of Gander rose with generosity and grace. Undeterred by language barriers or cultural differences, they offered comfort through music, shared meals, open doors, and open hearts—reminding us all that, in moments of crisis, humanity itself becomes our family.

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James and the Giant Peach

May 7 - 16, 2027

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with James and his unforgettable friends as they journey across the ocean on their giant peach in this uplifting adaptation of Roald Dahl's beloved classic. James inspires us all to find courage within ourselves, reminding us that even the smallest step can lead to remarkable experiences filled with laughter, love, and discovery. Through every challenge and triumph, we learn that the bonds we form along the way can transform strangers into a true family, united by hope and resilience.

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Songs That Brought Us Home

June 13 & 14, 2026

A memorable performance of music and storytelling Travis and Abby Turpin share the songs that shaped their lives, featuring old standards, musical theatre, country favorites, big band classics, guitar, impersonations, and family stories that brought them to the Cedar Valley.

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Disney's Finding Nemo: A 60-Minute Family Musical

September 18 - 27, 2026

Dive into the extraordinary journey of Marlin, a devoted clownfish whose love for his child, Nemo, propels him beyond his fears and into the vast unknown. When adversity strikes and Nemo is swept away to Sydney, Marlin’s unwavering determination transforms every obstacle into an opportunity for growth. Alongside unforgettable companions—like the ever-optimistic Dory, the wise Crush, and the resilient Tank Gang—Marlin discovers that true courage is not the absence of fear, but the resolve to press forward for those we cherish.
The Finding Nemo musical is more than a spectacle; it’s a celebration of hope, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself. It reminds us that even in the deepest waters, the bonds of family and friendship can light the way and encourages everyone to dream boldly, persevere through uncertainty, and never lose faith in the possibility of reunion and self-discovery.

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Every Christmas Story Ever Told

December 16 - 20, 2026

Such great holiday hilarity! What begins as another annual production of A Christmas Carol, soon devolves into a slightly irreverent (but undeniably adoring) look at all of your “Beloved Holiday Classics” including pop culture favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch, Rudolph, Charlie Brown and more! Add in topical references that always keep this annual tradition fresh and fun as we send up everything from Dickens to Dr. Seuss in an evening of high octane jollity and frivolity.

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Next Generation Theatre Artists

February 5 & 6, 2027

In partnership with the Waterloo Community Schools, BHCT mentors and guides middle school students through the experience of writing, rehearsing and performing a short production. Developed to give students a creative and collaborative experience, this inspiring project inspires students, teachers and local community.

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The Mousetrap

April 2 - 11, 2027

Think you can catch a killer? The Mousetrap drops you into a remote countryside hideaway where a group of strangers gathers—and soon discovers a murderer is among them. Secrets surface. Alibis crumble. Tension tightens with every revelation. As suspicion shifts from one character to the next, the mystery twists and turns toward a shocking final reveal. Clever, chilling, and irresistibly fun, this classic whodunit will keep you guessing until the very last moment as the mystery unravels, layer by layer. This story will keep you guessing with twists and turns around every corne

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Season Tickets with FLEX PASS

These FLEX PASS tickets can be used at any show during the season in which they are purchased. FLEX PASS tickets do not roll over from year to year. But they are a great way to save on tickets — you know you're going to want to go to more than 5 shows, so you might as well save some money, right? And support local theatre at the same time!

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Sponsored in part by

Administrative Offices Costume Rental Shop & RJ McElroy Theatre
Walker Building
224 Commercial Street
Waterloo, IA 50701


Office Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 12 pm - 5 pm, Friday 12 pm - 4 pm
Costume Rental Shop Hours: Thursday from 4 pm - 7 pm (or by appt.)

Hope Martin Theatre & Box Office
Waterloo Center for the Arts
225 Commercial Street Waterloo, IA 50701

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©2026 Waterloo Community Playhouse. All rights reserved.

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