Rubicon Theatre, Ventura County’s not-for-profit professional theatre company, has just announced the schedule for the company’s 26th season. Rubicon’s 2024-2025 six-show season, entitled “DARE TO DREAM,” continues the company’s commitment to producing innovative professional dramas, comedies, musicals, and outreach programs for the entertainment, enrichment and education of area residents and visitors. Notably, the new season includes three world premieres and a first-time partnership with The Acting Company in New York.
For more information about Rubicon Theatre Company, or to purchase tickets, call (805) 667-2900 or go to Rubicon. The theatre is located at 1006 E. Main Street in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District.
New subscribers save 15% off single ticket prices on four-to-six show packages. All subscribers are automatically entered in Rubicon’s contest to win a Dream Trip to Hawaii, which includes a week’s stay in a luxury condo on Maui, round-trip airfare, and lunch with a Tony Award-Winning producer. Those who subscribe to Rubicon’s DARE TO DREAM Season by September 7 receive a complimentary ticket to the Tony Award-winning musical Once, the final show of Rubicon’s 25th Season, for a total savings of up to $135.
Once | Musical (final show of 25th Season)
Sep. 11 – Oct. 6, 2024
Book by Enda Walsh
Music and Lyrics by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová
Based on the Motion Picture Written and Directed by John Carney
Tap your feet, raise your mug and fling the foam! Set in the streets of Dublin, an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant are drawn together by their shared love of music. Over the course of a week, an unexpected friendship quickly evolves into a powerful but complicated love story. Winner of 8 Tony Awards, the show features all of the magical songs from the critically acclaimed film, including the Oscar-winning “Falling Slowly.” This achingly beautiful, joyously uplifting show strikes an unforgettable chord in audiences and speaks to the power of music to connect us all.
A COWBOY LULLABY | World Premiere Theatrical Concert
Dec. 4 – 22, 2024
Written by James O’Neil and Dan Wheetman
Directed by James O’Neil
Musical Director and Arrangements by Dan Wheetman
Featuring Sylvie Davidson and Trevor Wheetman
Saddle up for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Old West with A Cowboy Lullaby, a captivating concert written by Drama Desk Nominee James O’Neil (Lonesome Traveler) and Tony nominee Dan Wheetman (Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues). Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of cowboy culture as our talented singers and instrumentalists weave a rich tapestry of song, story, and frontier spirit. From haunting ballads to foot-stomping anthems, A Cowboy Lullaby celebrates the rugged charm and indomitable spirit of the American cowboy. So grab your hat and join us under the stars for a night of music that will transport you to a place where dreams are as vast as the open range.
TWO TRAINS RUNNING | Drama
Jan. 15 – Feb. 2, 2025
By Pulitzer Prize-Winner August Wilson
Directed by Lili-Anne Brown
Produced in Association with The Acting Company of New York
Step into the soul-stirring world of Two Trains Running, where the vibrant streets of 1960s Pittsburgh serve as the backdrop for an unforgettable journey of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Set in a bustling diner, this compelling narrative weaves together the lives of its diverse characters, each grappling with the winds of change sweeping through their community. With powerful storytelling and poignant dialogue, Two Trains Running explores themes of race, identity, and the resilience of human spirit. Rubicon is honored to partner on this production with The Acting Company, which was founded by JOHN HOUSEMAN and furthered the careers of artists like KEVIN KLINE, PATTI LUPONE, JEFFREY WRIGHT and RAINN WILSON.
CONSTELLATIONS | Drama
Feb. 19 – Mar. 9, 2025
By Nick Payne
Directed by Jonathan Fox
Step into the mesmerizing multiverse of Constellations, a captivating exploration of love, fate, and the infinite possibilities of existence. Delve into the surreal landscape of multiple universes as Marianne and Roland’s relationship unfolds in a kaleidoscope of moments, each one branching into alternate realities. As they navigate the twists and turns of their connection, the boundaries between dreams and reality blur, inviting audiences to ponder the profound mysteries of the cosmos and the power of human connection. Join us on this enchanting journey through the stars, where every choice sparks a new constellation of possibilities.
CRAZY MAMA:
A TRUE STORY OF LOVE AND MADNESS | World Premiere Drama
Mar. 26 – Apr. 6, 2025
Written by Sharon Scott Williams
Directed by Golden Globe Nominee Anson Williams
Sharon races home from school a couple days after her 8th birthday to beat her teenaged brother Spikey to the last slice of birthday cake. When she enters the kitchen, she finds her mother wielding a knife. As the Sheriff escorts her mother away, the deputy tells Sharon that her mama is “not right in the head.” Crazy Mama is a one-woman tour-de-force about Sharon’s decades-long dream of saving her mother from the soul-crushing grip of mental illness. A testament to the steely resilience of the human heart and the enduring nature of hope, Crazy Mama will leave you breathless, moved, and profoundly inspired.
BONNIE & CLYDE: THE MUSICAL | A New Version of the Tony Nominated Musical
Apr. 30 – May 18, 2025
Music by Frank Wildhorn and Lyrics by Don Black
Book by Ivan Menchell
Directed by Scott Schwartz (Golda’s Balcony and Jane Eyre on Broadway/Bat Boy Off-Broadway)
Experience an exhilarating tale of love, crime, and passion reimagined in our thrilling new musical production of Bonnie & Clyde. With an unforgettable score by Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll & Hyde) that combines rockabilly, blues and gospel music, this new adaptation brings the gripping story of America’s most notorious outlaws to life in a fresh and dynamic way. Join Bonnie and Clyde on their infamous journey through the heartland, as they defy authority, chase their dreams, and ultimately meet their tragic destiny. Don’t miss this riveting theatrical event that will leave you on the edge of your seat!
THE EPIC TALE OF HI’IAKA:
A NEW HAWAIIAN MUSICAL | Developmental Premiere
Book, Music and Lyrics by Roslyn Catracchia and Patrick Makuakāne
Oct. 22 – Nov. 9, 2025
Production Supervision by Scott Schwartz
Musical Supervision by Brad Haak
Produced in Association with WitzEnd Productions
This magical new musical follows the shero’s journey of the Hawaiian goddess Hi’iaka, the youngest sister of Pele, weaving together a spellbinding narrative of love and bravery. Audiences will be transported to an enchanted realm where gods and mortals are challenged by the power of the elements. Set against the backdrop of lush landscapes and ancient traditions, this groundbreaking developmental premiere musical comes to Rubicon from the Tony Award-winning producing team of last season’s Dark of the Moon. With authentic Hawaiian dance choreographed by MacArthur genius Patrick Makuakāne, this remarkable experience promises a breathtaking fusion of culture, music, and storytelling.
THE EPIC TALE OF HI’IAKA: A NEW HAWAIIAN MUSICAL