MINNESOTA — Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) is set to celebrate its 75th season, spotlighting the enduring influence of theatre in the round within the Minnesota region and beyond. The landmark 2026–2027 season, aptly themed “We’ve Been Around: A Celebration of Minnesotan Art and Resiliency,” is designed to honor Minnesota’s artistic legacy while looking ahead to the future of community theatre.

Championing Minnesota’s Artistic Heritage

With the new theatre season, TRP continues its longstanding tradition of highlighting regional contributions to the arts. This year’s lineup features works by renowned Minnesota playwrights and authors, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Kate DiCamillo, and Charles M. Schulz. These notable names exemplify the rich storytelling traditions rooted in the state, cementing Minnesota’s role as a hub for American theatre.

A Season of Collaboration and Innovation

The 75th season offers more than just a retrospective; it introduces world premieres and unique playwright collaborations with local arts organizations. These partnerships are designed to elevate emerging and established Minnesota artists, with productions crafted specifically for TRP’s celebrated arena theatre format. The company’s collaborations are a testament to the organization’s adaptive spirit and its longstanding commitment to minnesota arts advancement.

The Arena Theatre Experience Unique to TRP

TRP’s distinctive arena theatre style places the audience on all sides of the stage, dissolving barriers between artist and observer. This intimate setting fosters a communal spirit reminiscent of early theatrical traditions, making every performance a shared event. The immersive environment remains a defining feature of theatre in the round, offering theatre-goers a truly unique perspective that remains rare in contemporary local productions.

Community Roots and Volunteer-Driven Resilience

Founded in 1952, Theatre in the Round Players has always identified as a community theatre, drawing on the talents of both professional and amateur artists. The theatre operates from its historic Cedar-Riverside venue, maintained predominantly through dedicated volunteer theatre efforts. This legacy of volunteerism has seen the company weather significant challenges, from funding shifts to the hardships of the pandemic era, while sustaining its role as a cornerstone of the historic theatre community.

Investing in the Future of Minnesota Theatre

As the Twin Cities arts scene evolves, TRP continues to nurture and support emerging organizations, showing an unwavering commitment to the vitality of minnesota theatre. This season’s broad and diverse offerings aim to engage new generations, welcoming both actors and audiences to participate in the ongoing story of Minnesota’s performing arts. By fostering community involvement, TRP ensures that Minnesota’s creative spirit remains vibrant and inclusive.

Looking Ahead

The 75th anniversary celebration stands not only as a tribute to TRP’s history, but also as a call to action for ongoing engagement and resilience within Minnesota’s arts communities. As familiar faces and newcomers unite to celebrate this milestone, Theatre in the Round Players affirms its dedication to the regional legacy of live performance—a legacy built on collaboration, perseverance, and the power of shared stories.