This summer, the Rochester Opera House is pleased to announce a season filled with laughter, music, and Broadway magic. From undersea adventures to outrageous comedy, the Rochester Opera House is the place to be this summer.
Making a Splash: The Little Mermaid
Opening Friday, July 11 at 7:30 PM, Disney’s The Little Mermaid sails onto the Rochester stage with beloved hits like “Kiss the Girl,” “Under the Sea,” and “Part of Your World.” This enchanting musical adaptation of the 1989 animated film premiered on Broadway in 2008, earning Tony Award nominations for Best Lighting Design of a Musical and Best Original Score.
With a book by Doug Wright, music by Alan Menken, and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, the story follows Ariel, a curious and spirited mermaid who dreams of life on land. After rescuing Prince Eric from a shipwreck, she makes a daring deal with the sea witch, Ursula—trading her voice for legs. Ariel has just three days to win Eric’s kiss, or risk losing her soul forever. With the help of her friends, she navigates the human world in a race against time.
The Rochester production stars Opera House favorites Eloise Ellis as Ariel, Chris Bradley as Ursula, and Marcus Provost as King Triton, under the direction of the infamously talented Scott Severance.
Following the Opera House’s wildly popular production of Beauty and the Beast in Summer 2024, The Little Mermaid continues the tradition of Disney magic. The show runs through Saturday, August 2 at 7:30 PM.
Cue the Laughter: The Producers
The summer fun continues as The Producers takes the stage beginning Friday, August 8 at 7:30 PM. This wildly irreverent musical comedy, adapted by Mel Brooks from his 1967 film, premiered on Broadway in 2001 with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. The production became a sensation, winning a record-breaking 12 Tony Awards—including Best Musical, Best Book, and Best Score—surpassing Hello, Dolly!’s long-standing record.
The plot follows Max, a washed-up Broadway producer, and Leo, his nervous accountant. Together, they concoct a scheme to produce the worst musical ever, raise a fortune in investments, and flee with the profits once the show flops. But when their offensive and absurd production unexpectedly becomes a smash hit, chaos ensues. Will they be exposed?
The Rochester production stars local legend Bill Hartery as Max, with Marcus Provost returning as Leo. Directed by Rochester Opera House’s own Jenry Towle, this hilarious production is not to be missed!
Special Ticket Offer
Visit Stagedoor Tickets and More to take advantage of the Holy Rosary Credit Union $10 Youth Ticket Deal. With the purchase of one full-price ticket, two youth tickets can be purchased for just $10 each. This special offer is available exclusively at the Opera House Box Office or Stagedoor Tickets and More, located at 1 Wakefield Street in Rochester.
Youth Summer Camps at RPAC
This summer, the Rochester Performance & Arts Center (RPAC) offers three exciting theater camps for young performers:
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Youth Mainstage: The Little Mermaid Jr. (Ages 8–18)
Running July 7–25, this full-scale production teaches campers the magic of storytelling as they bring The Little Mermaid Jr. to life. -
Broadway Bound Kids: On Broadway! (Ages 7–12)
This two-week camp focuses on acting, improv, and self-expression while introducing young performers to the thrill of live theater. -
Future Stars (Ages 5–6)
Designed for the youngest campers, Future Stars offers two sessions of creativity and confidence-building through singing, movement, and imaginative play.
Concert Series Highlight: Everclear Live in Concert
The Opera House’s historic stage also welcomes iconic 90s alt-rock band Everclear! With over six million records sold and hits like “Santa Monica” and “Father of Mine,” the band returns with a nostalgic punch. Following the platinum success of their 1995 album Sparkle and Fade, Everclear earned a Grammy nomination in 1998. Catch them live on Sunday, August 10 at 7 PM.
Plan Your Summer at the Rochester Opera House
No summer calendar is complete without a trip to the historic Rochester Opera House. With unforgettable musicals, dynamic youth programming, and live concerts, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss a moment—Rochester Opera House can’t wait to welcome audiences to a season of splashes and shenanigans!
The Rochester Opera House is located at 31 Wakefield Street, above City Hall. The venue is air-conditioned with free parking. Call (603) 335-1992, visit the Box Office, or visit www.rochesteroperahouse.com for more information and to purchase tickets.