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Austin's hit musical lineup.

Reject corporate-style Broadway entertainment for independent and alternative art this summer in Austin.

Published July 2, 2024 at 8:00am by Michael Barnes


It's summertime, and while Hollywood offers action-packed blockbuster movies, the theater scene has its own brand of fun with light-hearted Broadway comedies and musicals. But before we dive into the upcoming youth-centric shows, a reminder of the exceptional talent recognized at April's Heller Awards, celebrating outstanding high school musical artistry. Over 500 students from 37 schools received prizes, with Jamias Hughes (Lockhart High) and Ava Moak (Round Rock High) advancing to the Jimmy Awards on Broadway.

Round Rock's "Sweeney Todd" took best show, with individual kudos to Chanse Solis, Autry Bushon, Samuel Ferreira, and Wyatt Gonzalez.

Your Upcoming Musical Guide:

Guys and Dolls – A classic choice for Summer Stock Austin's 20th anniversary, this 1950 musical is based on Damon Runyon's stories, with memorable tunes by Frank Loesser. It never gets old.

** Dates/Info:** ImpactArts.org

Legally Blonde – Zilker Hillside Musicals' 65th season offers a free adaptation of Amanda Brown's novel-turned-Reese Witherspoon film. The Broadway musical (music/lyrics: Laurence O'Keefe/Nell Benjamin, dialogue: Heather Hach) earned Tony nods and critical acclaim.

** Dates/Info:** Zilker.org

Also showing at Wimberley Players:

** Dates/Info:** WimberleyPlayers.org

The Little Mermaid – Disney's 1989 animated hit, with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, gets a live makeover. The stage version's twists on the film kept the magic alive when it conquered Broadway in 2008.

** Dates/Info:** ImpactArts.org

"20 Seasons Spectacular" – A one-night celebration of Summer Stock Austin's anniversary, led by alum Vincent Jamal Hooper (The Lion King, Hamilton), reunites past stars for songs, dances, and memories.

** Date/Info:** ImpactArts.org

Austin's summer stage scene is alive with talent. Whether it's a classic musical, a movie-turned-show, or a magical Disney adventure, there's something for everyone.

Read more: How to see 'Guys and Dolls,' 'Legally Blonde,' 'Little Mermaid' and more in Austin