The Gulf Coast Rep, located in downtown OWA, announced an ambitious 2026 season featuring two regional premieres, an expanded new works program, and the debut of a Youth Theatre.

According to a news release, the season opens Sept. 24 with the regional premiere of Darren Butler’s interactive comedy, "Just Frank." The play has been in development for more than 20 years and was recently workshopped in a fully staged production that received strong audience feedback.

“We learned a lot, that’s for sure,” Butler said in the release.

The fully realized production of "Just Frank" will benefit from a small grant to enhance scenery and technical elements. It will introduce two new characters, Ted and Molly, and feature a new original song by award-winning singer and songwriter Judy Rodman titled “It’s All Gonna Be Okay.” Audiences will also be treated to cheesecake during intermission.

Following "Just Frank," the company will present William Gibson’s classic "The Miracle Worker" and close the season with Audrey Cefaly’s critically acclaimed "Maytag Virgin."

Next summer, the Gulf Coast Rep will mount the regional premiere of "Runaway Home," a musical co-written by Butler and Rodman. The show, in development since 2006, recently underwent an industry reading and workshop in New York City with talent including Melissa Gilbert and Abigail Breslin.

“We have revised the show based on all of the industry level feedback. Now, we’re ready,” Butler said.

A central focus for the Gulf Coast Rep is the cultivation of new work. Butler, who holds an MFA in Writing for Stage and Screen from Point Park University, is using his own plays as a “beta test” for a new works development program. The initiative will culminate in the inaugural Gulf Coast New Works Festival in 2026, featuring readings, panel discussions, writing workshops and one fully staged production. The company aims to eventually produce seasons consisting of 80% new work and 20% established plays, following the model of leading regional theaters nationwide.

In addition to adult programming, the Gulf Coast Rep will launch a Youth Theatre program offering acting classes and production roles for children, teens and adults.

“The youth are our future. They are our future artists and our future audiences,” Butler said.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Gulf Coast Rep relies on community support. Patrons are encouraged to buy tickets, purchase program advertising, become corporate sponsors and make contributions.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.gulfcoastrep.com.