ASU Gammage unmasks new Broadway season with return of 'Phantom of the Opera'


A woman and a masked man singing onstage.

ASU Gammage is launching its 2026–27 season with what many consider one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history, Cameron Mackintosh’s revitalized new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical, "The Phantom of the Opera." Photo courtesy of ASU Gammage

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ASU Gammage has unveiled its 2026–2027 Desert Financial Broadway Across America-Arizona Broadway season with a dynamic blend of Tempe premieres, beloved classics and acclaimed new hits.

It’s launching the season with what many consider one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history, Cameron Mackintosh’s revitalized new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical, "The Phantom of the Opera." The new lineup also includes "Water for Elephants," "The Outsiders," "Operation Mincemeat," "Buena Vista Social Club," "BOOP! The Musical," "The Sound of Music" and "Death Becomes Her." 

“Each year, we strive to bring the absolute best of Broadway to our community, and this season is no exception," said Colleen Jennings Roggensack, executive director of ASU Gammage and ASU vice president for cultural affairs. "From legendary titles to bold new works, these productions remind us why live theater continues to move, challenge and inspire audiences of all ages. At ASU Gammage, we are committed to creating experiences that welcome everyone into the magic of Broadway.”

Also, returning to the ASU Gammage stage as season options: "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical" and "Beetlejuice." These season options are not included in the eight-show season ticket package, but season ticket holders will receive priority access to these highly anticipated shows.

New this season, a limited number of balcony season ticket packages starting at $346 are now on sale at asugammage.com.

Current season ticket holders are currently able to renew their season tickets and can learn more at asugammage.com. You can also join the ASU Gammage waiting list at asugammage.com/waitlist.

Collage of posters for musicals.

2026–27 Broadway season:

"The Phantom of the Opera"
Wednesday, Sept. 16–Sunday, Oct. 4

The "Phantom" is back to thrill audiences once again. Cameron Mackintosh presents a revitalized new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical. Featuring Maria Björnson’s original design and based on the direction of Harold Prince, with musical staging and choreography by Gillian Lynne, the new North American tour comes to ASU Gammage this fall.

"Water for Elephants"
Tuesday, Oct. 27–Sunday, Nov. 1

The critically acclaimed bestselling novel comes to life in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical. Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional, heart-filled and gorgeously imaginative.”

"The Outsiders"
Tuesday, Jan. 26–Sunday, Jan. 31, 2027

The winner of four 2024 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, is "The Outsiders." Adapted from S.E. Hinton’s seminal novel and Francis Ford Coppola's iconic film, this new musical features a book by Adam Rapp with Justin Levine; music and lyrics by Jamestown Revival (Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance) and Tony Award-winner Justin Levine; music supervision, orchestration and arrangements by Justin Levine; choreography by Rick Kuperman and Jeff Kuperman; and direction by Tony Award-winner Danya Taymor. 

"Operation Mincemeat"
Tuesday, Feb. 23–Sunday, Feb. 28, 2027

How did a dead body, a fake love letter and — of all people — Ian Fleming turn the tide of WWII? Olivier Award-winner for Best New Musical and a 2025 Tony Award-winner, "Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical" is the best-reviewed show in West End history, with 88 five-star reviews, and the No. 1 Broadway Show of 2025 according to Entertainment Weekly.

"Buena Vista Social Club" 
Tuesday, April 20–Sunday, April 25, 2027

The Tony and Grammy award-winning "Buena Vista Social Club" is a journey through music and memory into the beating heart of Havana. A world-class company brings the story of the iconic album to thrilling life in this tale of big dreams, second chances and music that needs no translation.

"BOOP! The Musical"
Tuesday, May 18–Sunday, May 23, 2027

For almost a century, the Betty Boop character has won hearts and inspired fans around the world with her trademark looks, voice and style. Now, in "BOOP! The Musical," Betty’s dream of an ordinary day off from super-celebrity in her black-and-white world leads to an adventure of color, music and love in New York City. 

"The Sound of Music"
Tuesday, June 22–Sunday, June 27, 2027

With its timeless story and charming score, this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic isn’t just meant to be enjoyed — it’s meant to be shared. Now, a critically acclaimed North American tour brings the cherished musical to stages across the country to teach a new generation to sing.

"Death Becomes Her"
Tuesday, Aug. 24–Sunday, Aug. 29, 2027

"Death Becomes Her" is the Tony Award-winning new musical comedy based on the classic 1992 film, with direction and choreography by Tony-winner Christopher Gattelli. Experience the pop-culture phenomenon that’s been certified “hilarious” by The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, Goldie Hawn, Beyoncé and countless fans on Instagram, TikTok and beyond.

2026–27 season options:

"Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical"
Tuesday, Dec. 1–Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026

Celebrating 20 years of holiday magic, "Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical" is the record-setting Broadway tradition seen by more than 3 million theatergoers across 83 cities. Featuring songs “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” the show brings Dr. Seuss’ classic tale to life on stage. Narrated by Max the Dog, the mean and scheming Grinch — whose heart is “two sizes too small” — plots to steal Christmas from the cheerful Whos, only to discover the true meaning of the holiday season.

"Beetlejuice"
Friday, Jan. 1–Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027 

Based on Tim Burton’s beloved film, the musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. 

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