Altoona Community Theatre is pleased to officially announce its 2026-2027 Mainstage Season
Experience the Unexpected with ACT’s 2026-2027 season of shows where unplanned detours, murders, romance, and mayhem create heartfelt and remarkable stories.
Come From Away
Twenty-five years ago on September 11th, thirty-eight planes carrying more than 6,000 passengers were diverted to a remote, nearly forgotten Canadian airport on “the Rock” — the locals’ nickname for the island of Newfoundland. Over their next 5 days, an amazing story of generosity, resilience, and unexpected friendship unfolds. Come From Away is a heartwarming, high-energy musical that celebrates the power of kindness and the strength of community in the face of crisis.
With stirring harmonies, unforgettable characters, and moments that will make you laugh and cry, this Tony Award-winning show reminds us that even in the darkest times, humanity shines brightly. Join us for a remarkable story of hope, compassion, and connection.
Come From Away is a cathartic balm for a post-9/11 world… a celebration of the best in all of us.” — The New York Times
Murder on the Orient Express
When a snowdrift stops the Orient Express, an American tycoon is discovered murdered in a locked compartment. Agatha Christie’s classic locked‑room mystery, adapted by Tony-nominated playwright Ken Ludwig, becomes a fast‑moving, witty, and theatrical whodunit. Balancing razor‑sharp plotting with buoyant comic energy, Detective Hercule Poirot races to unmask a killer among a trainload of colorful suspects.
Ludwig’s comic twists lift the period glitz and moral dilemma into laugh‑out‑loud theatricality while preserving Christie’s ingenious plot. Expect elegant 1930’s style, a brilliant detective, an ensemble of flamboyant suspects, and a crowd‑pleasing climax that will leave you guessing and grinning. Join us for an evening of suspense, glamour, intrigue, and laughter.
“A murder mystery with a wink—brisk, witty, and utterly satisfying.” — The Daily Herald
Pride & Prejudice
Set in Regency Era England, Pride and Prejudice follows the clever Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates family chaos, sharp-tongued rivals, and the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. Jon Jory’s 2005 spirited stage adaptation of Jane Austen’s 1797 novel is fresh, fast-paced, and brimming with wit, warmth, and the social sparks that fly when pride meets prejudice.
This romantic, laugh-filled story celebrates how miscalculated misunderstandings give way to heart-felt honesty and second chances. Perfect for families, date nights, and lovers of classic storytelling, join us for an unforgettable night of charm, and the timeless discovery that love often arrives when we least expect it.
“Jory has crafted an exceptionally clear, funny, and moving update.” — San Francisco Chronicle
Something Rotten!
Something Rotten! explodes onto stage as a madcap mashup of Shakespearean swagger and Broadway bombast. Set in Renaissance England, two desperate brothers decide the only way to beat the Bard is to invent the “musical.” Chaos, tap numbers, and history-twisting humor ensue.
Expect show-stopping ensemble numbers, razor-sharp parody, and a loveable underdog story that’s equal parts slapstick and heart. With larger-than-life characters and a chorus line that never quits, this is the perfect night out for anyone who loves to laugh until they cry.
Bring your sense of humor and your loudest applause—this riotous romp rewrites history and
reminds us that sometimes the best ideas are the ones that make the most glorious mess. Join us for uproarious and unforgettable Renaissance revelry.
“A laugh‑a‑minute triumph—riotous, clever, and gloriously over‑the‑top.” — The Stage Review
Altoona Community Theatre hopes to you’ll join them in the Historic Mishler Theatre for this season of extraordinary theatrical experiences!