Hey Rhody logo Providence Monthly logo So Rhode Island logo The Bay logo
Blog

Trinity Rep’s New Season Marks a Turning Point for Providence Theater

A mix of premieres, classics, and bold new voices ushers in a new era while honoring a beloved legacy

Posted

A new season at Trinity Repertory Company always signals something worth paying attention to, but this one carries a little more weight than usual.

The 2026-27 lineup marks a transition, shaped by outgoing Artistic Director Curt Columbus alongside incoming Artistic Director Meredith McDonough. It’s a season that looks both backward and forward, balancing tradition with new energy. “It celebrates what has made Trinity Rep remarkable since its founding,” Columbus says, pointing to the company’s long-standing commitment to artists, community, and work that both entertains and challenges.

The season opens with The Getaway Driver, a gripping world premiere based on the true story of a woman tied to one of the longest runs on the FBI’s Most Wanted List. Directed by Columbus, the production sets the tone with a story that feels urgent and deeply human.

From there, the theater leans into a milestone. A Christmas Carol returns for its 50th anniversary, a tradition that has drawn generations of Rhode Islanders through Trinity Rep’s doors. This year’s production, directed by company member Taavon Gamble, promises a fresh take on a familiar story.

McDonough steps into her new role with Cyrano, an irreverent and heartfelt adaptation that highlights her directorial voice. “The shows we’ve chosen are as smart as they are moving,” she says. “They center on people owning the power of their voices and opening themselves up to possibility.”

That theme carries through the rest of the season, from the sharp comedy of Mother Russia to the return of August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and a closing production that blends magic and memoir in an unexpected way.

Behind the scenes, Trinity Rep continues a major renovation, with all performances taking place in the Dowling Theater for now. As Executive Director Katie Liberman puts it, this season serves as “a bridge to Trinity Rep’s future.” Explore the full season and plan your visit at TrinityRep.com.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here



X