NKU’s School of the Arts (SOTA) has an exciting season in store, with six productions slated for the 2025-2026 school year, as well as performances from the student-led Henry Konstantinow Studio Theatre. Here’s a look at what students can expect to see, from Broadway classics to modern comedies—the season is packed with something for everyone.
Oklahoma!
Corbett Theatre
Sept. 26–Oct. 5, 2025
The season kicks off with a musical by writing duo Rodgers and Hammerstein. Brimming with romance and adventure, this Western tale is set against the backdrop of a rivalry between farmers and cowboys.
“Oklahoma was originally produced at a time when Americans needed hope and joy,” Director of the show, Katharine Moser, said. “We are producing this show now to give this same hope and joy to the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati Community.” Originally written in 1943, SOTA’s adaptation of “Oklahoma!” promises a fresh take on a classic production.
At the Wedding
Stauss Theatre
Oct. 24–Nov. 2, 2025
With the newly reopened Stauss Theatre, “At the Wedding” is a comedy revolving around Carlo, a woman who attends her ex-girlfriend’s wedding. Carlo must interact with people from her past, pushing her to reevaluate life. Director Nicole Perrone recommends arriving at the theatre early, as the venue will be set up like a wedding reception. “The characters of the play, wedding guests and banquet staff, will greet audiences with wedding photos, drinks and dancing to set the tone for a festive evening,” Perrone said.
A Christmas Carol
Corbett Theatre
Nov. 21–23 & Dec. 3–7, 2025
Based on the novella by Charles Dickens, SOTA is bringing the classic Christmas tale to NKU. This semester, Director Michael Hatton plans on making the show more immersive than ever. “We are accomplishing this, in part, by turning the Corbett Theatre into an arena-style theatre with seating on the stage as well as in the auditorium,” Hatton said.
The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserable old man bent on loathing the holiday season. Visited by the ghosts of time, he must confront his biases to discover the true meaning behind Christmas. With live instruments, dancing and singing, the musical is a family-friendly production for everyone in the local community.
Eurydice
Stauss Theatre
Feb. 13–22, 2026
A modern retelling of the tragic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, this love story follows Eurydice as she enters the underworld after dying on her wedding day. The play is narrated from Eurydice’s point of view as she reunites with her father.
Director Corrie Danieley plans to draw inspiration from “Alice in Wonderland” for the set design and costumes. The classic children’s story is filled with quirky characters and whimsical scenery. “This modern take helps us understand the same story, making it easier for us to connect with,” Danieley said. “We all experience love, loss, grief, desperation…It’s a story for all of us.”
Mamma Mia!
Corbett Theatre
Apr. 10–19, 2026
NKU’s first-ever production of “Mamma Mia!” will be directed by Professor Ken Jones. As one of the most popular musicals on Broadway, the play is a story of love and self-discovery through the lens of the special bond between a mother and daughter. Chock-full of music and dance numbers, the show features hit songs from Swedish pop group ABBA, such as “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper” and “SOS.”
Jones is bringing in past students to help choreograph the show, allowing current students to collaborate with alumni. “It’s going to make you want to sing along with ABBA’s greatest hits and get you out of your seats dancing,” Jones said.
Dance ’26: SHIFT
Corbett Theatre
May 1–3, 2026
Centered around the broad idea of “shift,” dancers will have the opportunity to display various dance styles and choreography in front of a live audience. “Like all live art, performances are what bring the process to life,” Dance Professor Jeri Gatch said. “The lives of the performer and viewer are both enhanced by being in a space together viewing work, discussing it, reacting to it.” This year will have live musical scores, as well as a viewing of a choreographed dance film made prior to the concert.
The Henry Theatre
Established between 2007 and 2008, the Henry Konstantinow Studio Theatre, also known as The Henry, enables students to take full lead in theatrical productions. Henry Producers, a student-led organization, oversees the entire show process from start to finish. “Through this collaborative process, The Henry fosters fully student-driven productions that showcase talents at NKU,” said Pheonix Bills, The Henry’s lead producer. The Henry is presenting four productions this school year, each proposed, directed, designed and choreographed by students:
Rocky Horror Picture Show: Oct. 31 and Nov. 2
Steel Magnolias: Nov. 12–15
She Kills Monsters: Feb. 25–28
The Moors: April 22–25
To find auditions, updates and involvement opportunities, follow @insidethehenry on Instagram for more information.
In addition to these shows, the First Year Showcase will be on Nov. 7-8, and the Emerging Choreographers’ Showcase will be on Nov. 23–24. You can learn more about this year’s productions and purchase tickets here.