A NOTE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

Dear Friends of The Rep,

It is with great joy that I share our 2025–2026 season:
Between Worlds: Where Truth, Memory, and Imagination Collide.

At Nebraska Repertory Theatre, we train and create in the space 'between worlds' — between the academic and the professional, the emerging and the established, the classroom and the stage. It’s a rare and energizing position that allows us to present compelling work while giving our students the chance to collaborate with working artists and industry mentors. This season is a vivid reflection of that mission — where learning, craft, and storytelling converge in full view of our audiences.

We open with Eurydice by Sarah Ruhl — a poetic, dreamlike retelling of the Orpheus myth, seen through Eurydice’s eyes. I’m thrilled that this production will be helmed by David Long, the Head of our Acting Program, who is taking time out from his whirlwind film festival circuit to bring his singular artistry to Sarah’s haunting and visually arresting world.

Next, we step into the suspense and glamour of Murder on the Orient Express, Agatha Christie’s classic mystery adapted with flair by Ken Ludwig. This production will be guided by the acclaimed Brendon Fox, whose résumé includes serving as Associate Artistic Director at The Old Globe, among many other distinguished posts. We’re delighted to bring his talents to Lincoln — and to our students.

We’re also thrilled to welcome back Lori Adams, who directed last season’s hit POTUS, to direct Kim Rosenstock’s Tigers Be Still. Lori brings both fierce comedy and profound humanity to everything she touches, and this darkly funny play about moving forward in the face of chaos is in expert hands.

And finally, we are honored to present Bright Star, the heartwarming musical by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. Directing and choreographing is Robert Pieranunzi, a member of the original Broadway company. His artistry and storytelling instinct — honed both on Broadway and in the rehearsal room — promise to make this collaboration with UNL Opera a truly unforgettable experience.

Each of these extraordinary artists represents not only excellence in their craft but the high level of talent and connection we’re proud to share with our students and audiences alike. Their presence on our stages reinforces what makes Nebraska Rep so special: we are a place where future professionals learn from today’s working artists, and where every production is a bridge between the academic and professional worlds.

Thank you for making this work possible — your continued support allows us to dream boldly, create fearlessly, and build a vibrant future for the next generation of theatre makers.

We can’t wait to welcome you between worlds this season.

Warmly,

Hank Stratton
Director, Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film
Executive Artistic Director, Nebraska Repertory Theatre