Pride Month is just beginning but Ensemble Arts is planning to keep LGBTQ+ theater audiences satisfied for the rest of 2024. From award-winning musicians and iconic Broadway shows to sharp-witted comedians and timeless pop culture phenomena, the remainder of this year is sure to give something for you to enjoy. The full schedule is below:
Ben Platt: “The Honeymind Tour” (June 21; 8 p.m.; Academy of Music)
The Tony, Grammy and Emmy Award winner will bring his talents to the Academy of Music for his tour named after his third studio album, “Honeymind.” Platt is best known for his Tony-winning performance as Evan in “Dear Evan Hansen” and his showstopping Tony and Grammy-nominated work in the musical, “Parade.”
“Funny Girl” (July 16-28; Academy of Music)
March your band out and beat your drum to the revival of the Broadway sensation that launched Barbra Streisand’s career. Out actor Stephen Mark Lukas takes on the role of Nick Arnstein for the North American tour after understudying the role on Broadway. Much like Mr. Arnstein, Lukas (along with the cast and an updated book by Harvey Fierstein) will surely get audiences to hand over their money.
“Mamma Mia” (Aug. 6-11; Academy of Music)
Here we go again. There’s no better way to spend a wedding on a Greek island paradise than with a mother, daughter, three possible fathers and the music of ABBA. Jim Newman takes on the role of one of the potential fathers, Bill Austin. Audiences may recognize Newman as the Daddy in the digital LGBTQ+ series Daddyhunt: The Serial.
An Evening with Fran Lebowitz (Sept. 7; 7:30 p.m.; Miller Theater)
The author, public speaker and actor will provide her usual sharp social commentary on current events. Lebowitz, a lesbian, will also discuss “pet peeves including tourists, baggage-claim areas, after-shave lotion, adults who roller skate, children who speak French, or anyone who is unduly tan.” Audiences are sure to get a much-needed laugh during these fraught political times.
“The Life & Music of George Michael” (Sept. 19; 7:30 p.m.; Miller Theater)
The concert-style show will celebrate the life of the late musician and LGBTQ+ rights activist. Fans will be dancing and singing along to hits such as “Careless Whisper,” “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go” and many more as the show chronicles Michael’s journey — from his rise to fame with Wham! to his solo career.
Hannah Gadsby: “Woof!” (Sept. 22; 7 p.m.; Miller Theater)
You may recognize them from their hit Netflix specials “Nanette,” “Douglas,” “Something Special,” and — most recently — “Gender Agenda.” Now, Gadsby is coming to Philly to bring their unique humor and observations of everyday life — from anxieties to trivial and existential worries. The award-winning comedian is sure to dazzle audiences through comedy while getting them to think more deeply.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” 49th Anniversary Spectacular (Oct. 29; 7:30 p.m.; Miller Theater)
Do the “Time Warp” again with Brad Majors himself, Barry Bostwick. Fans of the iconic film can enjoy a screening of the original unedited version with a live shadow cast, audience participation segments, a costume contest, an on-site memorabilia display and more to celebrate the LGBTQ+ pop culture phenomenon. VIP tickets include a premium ticket, an exclusive laminate, and a pre-show meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Bostwick.
“Les Miserables” (Aug. 27-Sept. 8; Academy of Music)
The show, itself, needs no introduction but audiences will soon be introduced to Haley Dortch in the iconic role of Fantine. Dortch has come a long way since her performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” during an audition for a school talent show in the sixth grade. While the Black, queer actor did not make the cut for that show, she now gets to sing it eight times a week in her first professional job.
For more information, visit ensembleartsphilly.org.
