The 39th season features a Tony-winning comedy, a festive new musical, a powerhouse jazz musical inspired by a real-life legend, plus a full lineup of thrilling concerts and live performances.
Bristol Riverside Theatre (BRT) is thrilled to unveil its 2025-26 season filled with a dynamic blend of mainstage productions and special programming that celebrate storytelling, music, and community. From a Tony-winning play and vibrant musicals to soul-stirring dramas and irresistible holiday fun, BRT’s season invites audiences to laugh, reflect, and connect in the heart of historic Bristol.
The season kicks off on September 16, 2025.
“We’re inviting audiences into a season full of life,” said Co-Producing Director Amy Kaissar. “From laugh-out-loud comedy and high-energy musicals to stories that speak to legacy and cultural heritage, this season brings together everything that makes live theater so special.”
The season opens with Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, a delightfully absurd family comedy taking audiences to a Bucks County farmhouse, running September 16 to October 5, 2025, where a dramatic sibling reunion upends a tranquil setting. Vanya and Sonia enjoy their peaceful life until their movie-star sister Masha storms in with her younger boyfriend, Spike. Old resentments flare, chaos erupts, and hilarity ensues as this eccentric family navigates love, regret, and Chekhovian references in the most unexpected ways.
The holiday season shines bright with the World Premiere of The Nice List, a musical adventure heading to the BRT stage from December 9 to December 28, 2025. . When Santa departs the North Pole on a secret mission, two ambitious elves take charge of the Nice List only to discover that making the naughty-or-nice judgment is more complicated than it seems. Overflowing with festive songs, holiday hijinks, and heartwarming cheer, this musical is a joyful treat for audiences of all ages.
In the new year, BRT presents The Net Will Appear, a touching intergenerational dramedy from February 3 to February 26, 2026. Bernard, a gruff older man, climbs onto his roof in search of solitude only to be discovered by Rory, a precocious 9-year-old next-door neighbor with endless questions. As an unlikely friendship blossoms, the two share lessons on life, loss, and connection in this funny and deeply moving play.
Next up is the electrifying, toe-tapping musical Jelly’s Last Jam, running March 31 to April 26, 2026, bringing the life and music of jazz legend Jelly Roll Morton to life and to the stage. Told through scorching music, vivid storytelling, and dazzling choreography, Jelly’s Last Jam explores legacy, identity, and the price of genius, as Morton confronts his past from beyond the grave.
The season concludes with Real Women Have Curves, running May 26 to June 14, 2026. In this spirited and funny play, five curvy Latina seamstresses hustle to finish 200 dresses in three weeks while juggling dreams, deadlines, and the occasional sewing machine meltdown. As they stitch and share stories, they challenge body image norms and societal expectations, celebrating sisterhood, resilience, and the beauty of self-acceptance.
In addition to its mainstage offerings, BRT presents a high-energy concert series and special events throughout the year:
• Zeppelin vs. Queen | October 15 to 19, 2025 – Two rock giants face off in a thrilling tribute showdown.
• The Vegas Rat Pack | October 22 to 26, 2025 – This high-energy tribute brings the legendary Rat Pack vibe back to life.
• Piano Men: Generations | November 5 to 9, 2025 – A dynamic father-son duo celebrates the music of Billy Joel and Elton John.
• Tito Puente Jr. and His Latin Jazz Ensemble | November 15, 2025 – The son of the legendary Tito Puente keeps the Latin jazz legacy alive with fire and flair.
• An American Christmas Songbook | December 18 to 23, 2025 – A beloved BRT tradition filled with festive music and holiday spirit.
• MJ The Illusion | January 14 to 18, 2026 – A visual and musical journey through the iconic hits of Michael Jackson.
• Dancing Dream: A Tribute to ABBA | March 11 to 15, 2026 – Relive the magic of ABBA’s biggest hits in this irresistible concert experience.
• The Discoteks | May 9, 2026 – Dance the night away with this electrifying tribute to disco and Motown classics.
A catered reception follows each show’s opening performance. Additional special events include Friday Festival, which features complimentary spirits, hors d’oeuvres, and dessert on the first Friday of each production; Wine Down Wednesday; Thirsty Thursdays; Black Theatre Night; and Latino Theatre Night.
Subscriptions are on sale now. Individual tickets go on sale exclusively to subscribers on June 16 and open to the general public on June 23. Prices start at $53 for plays and $58 for musicals. Special events range from $35 to $64. All performances take place at Bristol Riverside Theatre, 120 Radcliffe Street. Each mainstage production includes pre- and post-show engagements designed to enhance the audience experience.
For tickets and more information, contact the BRT Box Office at 215-785-0100 or click here to purchase online.
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