East Tennessee State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance is pulling out all the stops for 2025-26, delivering a season that spans from the intimate charm of “Little Women” to the supernatural terror of “Carrie: The Musical.”
The season represents the kind of cultural programming that makes ETSU a creative cornerstone for the region, offering professional-quality productions that serve audiences throughout Appalachia while providing transformative educational experiences for student performers.
2025-26 production schedule
“Little Women” runs Oct. 23-26. Kate Hamill’s adaptation of the beloved Louisa May Alcott novel brings the March sisters’ story to vivid theatrical life.
“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” happens Nov. 19-23. This Tony Award-winning musical comedy combines audience participation with heartfelt storytelling about young competitors finding their voices.
“Passage” is slated for March 5-8. Christopher Chen's innovative work offers a contemporary theatrical experience exploring themes of identity and transformation.
“Carrie: The Musical” is April 15-19. Based on Stephen King's novel, this powerful musical explores themes of adolescence, acceptance, and the consequences of cruelty.
Serving the region through arts
“Our students consistently deliver performances that rival professional theatre anywhere,” said Cara Harker, interim chair of the department. “These productions don’t just showcase their incredible talents. They serve our entire Appalachian community by bringing world-class theatre right here to Johnson City.”
The diverse season reflects the department’s commitment to both classic and contemporary works, offering audiences everything from family-friendly adaptations to thought-provoking modern pieces.
Cultural impact
ETSU’s theatre program serves as a vital cultural resource for the region, drawing audiences from throughout Appalachia. The productions provide accessible, high-quality entertainment while supporting the creative economy and cultural life of Appalachia.
Student performers, meanwhile, benefit from intensive, professional-level training while gaining real-world experience in all aspects of theatrical production.
Tickets and information
The Martin Center for the Arts’ Bert C. Bach Theatre provides an intimate setting where audiences can experience the power of live performance up close, creating the kind of community connection that defines great regional theatre.
Purchase tickets through the Martin Center. The Department of Theatre and Dance is part of the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts, a vibrant hub for cultural activity.
Learn about the many ways in which life in the region is so rich at etsu.edu/our-region.
