Central Wyoming College Announces 2026-27 Theatre Season

Central Wyoming College Announces 2026-27 Theatre Season

On October 22, Central Wyoming College Theatre will raise the curtain on its 2026–27 mainstage season, featuring four productions ranging from Broadway musicals and a holiday favorite to a celebrated American comedy. 

The season marks a new chapter for Central Wyoming College Theatre under the leadership of Annette Benn Thornton, CWC’s new theatre instructor and director. Benn Thornton brings decades of experience as an educator, director and arts advocate, including directing more than 50 productions during her 20 years at Riverton High School.

“We’re incredibly excited about this season and the range of stories we’ll have the opportunity to bring to the CWC stage,” Benn Thornton said. “Theatre is at its best when it brings people together, and we want our community to know that there is a place for them here — whether they’re performing onstage, helping behind the scenes or joining us in the audience. We invite everyone to come be part of what we’re creating at Central Wyoming College this year.”

The 2026-27 season takes audiences from the joyful music of “Godspell” and the timeless generosity of “The Gift of the Magi” to Neil Simon’s coming-of-age comedy “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” before concluding with the larger-than-life energy of “Matilda The Musical.”

Central Wyoming College Announces 2026-27 Theatre Season

“Godspell” Oct. 22-25, 2026
Prepare ye for a joyous musical theatre celebration.
From Stephen Schwartz, the creator of “Wicked,” comes the Grammy Award-winning musical “Godspell.” CWC will present the updated 2012 revival version, following a group of friends who help Jesus Christ share uplifting lessons through parables brought to life with contemporary dialogue, comedy and music.

Featuring memorable songs including “Day by Day” and “Light of the World,” “Godspell” is a moving and relevant reminder of the universal power of love, kindness, tolerance and community.   While the first act is lighthearted and energetic, the second act includes heavier, mature themes that may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Performances are Thursday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 23, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 24, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 25, 2 p.m.

AUDITION ANNOUNCEMENT: GODSPELL (2012 Revival Edition)
CWC Theatre invites community members to take part in its upcoming production of Godspell, a musical featuring memorable music, vibrant storytelling and a strong focus on community. 

  • Audition & Production Details
  • Auditions: Monday, August 31, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
  • Callbacks: Tuesday, September 1, 6:30 p.m.

How to Participate
Those interested in performing or joining the production crew are encouraged to get involved. The link below provides online registration, audition requirements, preparation instructions and production crew sign-up information.

Godspell Audition Registration  For more information, contact Annette Benn Thornton directly at (307) 855-2217.

“The Gift of the Magi” Dec. 9-11, 2026
Central Wyoming College Theatre celebrates the holiday season with a heartwarming adaptation of O. Henry’s timeless story, crafted by talented local playwrights.

Moving beyond the commercialism of the holidays, the production explores selfless love, deep devotion and true generosity with humor and sincerity. At its heart is a powerful reminder that the most precious treasures in life are often the sacrifices people make for those they love. The production is suitable for all audiences.

Performances are Wednesday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m.

“Brighton Beach Memoirs” March 4-7, 2027
Step into 1937 Brighton Beach in Brooklyn with Neil Simon’s “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” a funny and touching coming-of-age comedy exploring family, relationships and the pursuit of the American dream during the Great Depression.

Seen through the eyes of quick-witted teenager Eugene, the play explores adolescent awakening, family duty and economic survival. Amid the crowded realities of a bustling extended-family household, Simon balances laugh-out-loud humor with an honest look at the complicated responsibilities of growing up.

It is a heartfelt celebration of family and resilience that may leave audiences laughing one moment and reaching for a tissue the next.  The production is rated PG-13.

Performances are Thursday, March 4, 7 p.m.; Friday, March 5, 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 6, 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 7, 2 p.m. 

“Matilda The Musical” April 28-May 2, 2027
Central Wyoming College  Theatre closes its mainstage season with “Matilda The Musical,” the Broadway hit based on Roald Dahl’s bestselling book.

Matilda is an extraordinary girl who finds refuge in books and discovers the power of her own imagination. Faced with cruel parents and a tyrannical headmistress, she sets out to change her story — and learns that even the smallest person can make an enormous difference.

Funny, imaginative and full of heart, “Matilda The Musical” is a triumphant celebration of courage, creativity and standing up for what is right. The production is rated PG.

Performances are Wednesday, April 28, 7 p.m., Thursday, April 29, 7 p.m., Friday, April 30, 7 p.m., Saturday, May 1, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, May 2, 2 p.m. 

All performances will be held in Central Wyoming College’s Robert A. Peck Arts Center. 2660 Peck Ave., Riverton, WY 82501.  Tickets and additional information for CWC Theatre productions are available at cwc.edu/tickets and at cwc.edu/calendar.

Students inspired to take the stage, work behind the scenes or build their skills in the arts can still enroll at Central Wyoming College for the fall 2026 semester. Fall classes begin Aug. 24, with opportunities available in theatre and other media, arts and humanities programs. Prospective students can learn more and apply at cwc.edu/apply.