A Season of Legends and Innovation in Philadelphia Theater
Philadelphia is set to shine this theater season with a lineup of productions that celebrate historical figures, iconic musicians, and groundbreaking stories. From the powerful legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to the rock and roll legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, the city’s stages are brimming with talent and storytelling.
Among the most anticipated musicals this fall areBack to the Future: The Musical,Falsettos,Kimberly Akimbo, andThe Rocky Horror Show. These productions promise to captivate audiences with their unique narratives and unforgettable performances. New dramas, such asJobandWishing to Grow Up Brightly, will also make their debut, exploring the complexities of modern life and the impact of technology on society.
Here are 11 shows that are sure to leave a lasting impression, along with recommendations for dining near each theater.
‘Falsettos’ – Arden Theatre
Running from September 25 to October 26 at the Arden Theatre,Falsettosis a Tony-winning musical that delves into the messy relationships and big emotions of its characters. Written by William Finn and James Lapine, the show follows Marvin, a charming yet neurotic character who leaves his wife for his lover Whizzer. The story takes a dramatic turn when Whizzer contracts AIDS, leading to heart-wrenching moments and emotional revelations.
Dining Recommendation:
–Royal Boucherie: A classic French restaurant just a block away from the theater. Try escargot, steak frites, or branzino, and finish with crème brûlée.
–Bleu Martini: A loungey spot offering fruity cocktails like blueberry schnapps and floral vodka mix.
–Angelo Pizza: A great option for a casual post-show meal.
‘Million Dollar Quartet’ – Walnut Street Theatre
From September 30 to November 2, the Walnut Street Theatre presentsMillion Dollar Quartet, a musical that transports audiences back to December 4, 1956, when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins met in a Memphis studio. This one-night jam session is brought to life through the music of the era, including hits like “Blue Suede Shoes” and “I Walk the Line.”
Dining Recommendation:
–Giorgio on Pine: An Italian restaurant with a gluten-free menu.
–Oyster House: Offers seafood dishes like oysters Rockefeller and chilled ceviche.
–Dirty Franks: A place for a nightcap after the show.
–Borromini: A new spot from Stephen Starr offering creative cocktails.
‘Tommy and Me’ – People’s Light
Running from October 7 to 19 at People’s Light,Tommy and Meis an autobiographical play written by Ray Didinger, focusing on his lifelong passion for football and wide receiver Tommy McDonald. The play explores Didinger’s childhood memories and his efforts to get McDonald into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Dining Recommendation:
–Restaurant Alba: Known for fresh pastas like spaghetti with clams.
–General Warren: Offers dishes such as beef Wellington and pretzel-crusted chicken schnitzel.
‘Fire!!’ – Quintessence Theatre
From October 8 to November 2,Fire!!tells the story of a revolutionary literary magazine that only published one issue in 1926. The play, written by Paul Oakley Stovall and Marilyn Campbell-Lowe, brings to life the contributions of Harlem Renaissance writers like Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes.
Dining Recommendation:
–Nile Cafe: A vegan-friendly spot with plant-based versions of jerk chicken legs and pepper steak.
–Zsa’s Ice Cream: Nearby for house-made ice cream flavors.
‘The Rocky Horror Show’ – Bucks County Playhouse
From October 10 to November 2, the Bucks County Playhouse will present its annual production ofThe Rocky Horror Show. With Frankie Grande reprising his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the show promises to be a wild and campy experience, complete with audience participation during the “Time Warp.”
Dining Recommendation:
–Playhouse Deck Restaurant and Bar: Offers steak house burgers and crab cakes.
–Stella of New Hope: Features wild mushroom dumplings and lobster ravioli.
‘Kimberly Akimbo’ – Academy of Music
Running from October 21 to November 2,Kimberly Akimbofollows a 16-year-old girl named Kimberly, who has a genetic condition causing her to age rapidly. Despite her challenges, she finds friendship and humor in her journey, making the show both heartwarming and entertaining.
Dining Recommendation:
–Little Nonna’s: A cozy restaurant with bucatini cacio e pepe and pan-seared gnocchi.
–Borromini: Offers a 100-layer lasagna.
‘The Mountaintop’ – Arden Theatre
From October 30 to December 14,The Mountaintoptells the story of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final night alive. Written by Katori Hall, the play was initially staged in London before making its Broadway debut. Akeem Davis will portray King in this production.
Dining Recommendation:
–Ellen Yin’s Fork: Offers braised pork shank and roasted lamb.
–Amada: Known for squid ink paella and steak à la plancha.
–Sassafras Bar: A great spot for a nightcap after the show.
‘Job’ – Theatre Exile
From October 30 to November 23,Jobexplores the psychological thriller of a Gen-Z workaholic who faces a crisis after a video of her office meltdown goes viral. Directed by Deborah Block, the play delves into the horrors of the internet age and generational divides.
Dining Recommendation:
–Barcelona Wine Bar: Offers French rosé and tapas like gazpacho and grilled oysters.
–Tiffin: Serves biryani, samosas, and gulab jamun.
–Burrata: Known for gnocchi and rigatoni.
‘Wishing to Grow Up Brightly’ – Theatre Horizon
From November 5 to 23,Wishing to Grow Up Brightlyis a semiautobiographical musical about a Korean adoptee returning home after her father’s death. The play explores themes of grief, identity, and memory through the lens of surreal technology.
Dining Recommendation:
–Eve’s Lunch: Offers zep hoagies without lettuce.
–El Limon: Serves al pastor tacos and chorizo enchiladas.
–Corropolese Bakery & Deli: A must-visit for tomato pie.
‘Back to the Future: The Musical’ – Academy of Music
From November 18 to 30,Back to the Future: The Musicalbrings the 1985 film to life on stage. With original songs by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, the musical follows Marty McFly as he travels back in time to 1955 using a time-travel machine.
Dining Recommendation:
–Estia Restaurant: Offers a three-course prix fixe dinner.
–Oyster House: Known for seafood dishes like chargrilled whole Maine lobster.
‘Little Women’ – Hedgerow Theatre
Running from November 26, 2025, to January 4, 2026,Little Womenis a feminist retelling of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel. Kate Hamill’s adaptation gives the story a modern twist, focusing on the March sisters and their individual journeys.
Dining Recommendation:
–Dim Sum-Mania: Offers Shanghai-style dim sum.
–La Belle Epoque: Known for onion soup and classic French fare.
