Music On Stage 69th Season
2025-2026
Our 69th season takes us from the North Pole to Victorian London, with a stop mid-way through in Elwood City! Join us for "Elf," "Arthur and Friends Make a Musical," and "Lionel Bart’s Oliver!"
"Elf – the Musical"
November 15-30, 2025
Book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin
Music by Mathhew Sklar
Lyrics by Chad Beguelin
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The story of "Elf" begins one fateful Christmas Eve, when an orphaned baby boy accidentally crawls into Santa's sack of toys. When he's discovered upon Santa's return to the North Pole, a childless elf volunteers raise him. But growing up, Buddy the Elf, being human, doesn't make toys very well (he also keeps hitting his head on the rafters); so, when Buddy's birth father is discovered living in New York City, Buddy is dispatched from the North Pole to live with him. Once there, he thaws the hearts of gruff New Yorkers, and helps the Big Apple rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.
Based on the hilarious hit Will Ferrel holiday movie, with a merry, holly-jolly score by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin ("The Wedding Singer", "The Prom") that critics called "hummable-tune laden" when it opened on Broadway, "Elf" is sure to kick off your holiday season with and extra big fa-la-la this year – after all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!
“Elf – the Musical” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
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"Arthur & Friends Make a Musical"
February 14-22, 2026
Based on the "Arthur" book series created by Marc Brown
Adapted for stage
Book and Lyrics by John Maclay
Music and Lyrics by Brett Ryback
Music On Stage presents the first community theatre production of "Arthur and Friends Make a Musical." Based on the beloved children's show, this musical for young audiences tells the story of Arthur the aardvark, whose teacher has announced his class has been selected to write and perform a musical for all of Elwood City to see! Everyone is thrilled at the opportunity . . . everyone but Arthur, that is. What should he do? Arthur feels more and more nervous as the big performance gets closer and closer . . . but with the help of his family and friends Buster, Brian, Francine, and Muffy — and even little sister D.W., Arthur learns the importance of being his best, unique self.
Join us for the return of Theatre for Young Audiences at Music On Stage!
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"Lionel Bart’s Oliver!"
May 9-24, 2026
Book, Music and Lyrics by Lionel Bart
Freely adapted from Charles Dickens’ "Oliver Twist"
The classic Dickens story of orphan Oliver Twist's adventures returns to Music On Stage to close out our 69th season!
The story follows the titular orphan, who, after having been raised in a harsh workhouse, escapes to 1830s London where he's taken in by a gang of pickpockets, led by the elderly criminal Fagin, who discovers the secret of Oliver's parentage. Through it all, Oliver never loses his innocence as he dreams of a better life. Featuring themes of courage, determination, and the enduring power of love, "Oliver!" is a heartwarming show with a classic Golden Age score, featuring standards such as "Where Is Love," "I'd Do Anything," and "As Long as He Needs Me" that you'll be sure to love all over again.
Consider yourself invited to this charming, poignant, and Tony-award winning musical that's sure to steal your heart. You won't want to miss this touching and heartfelt show!
“Lionel Bart’s Oliver!” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Music On Stage acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.
Reserve Your Tickets!
SEASON TICKETS:
Adults: $75
Seniors (62 & up): $60
Children (under 12): $30
INDIVIDUAL TICKETS: Pre-Order/Door
Adults: $28 / $30
Seniors (62 & up): $23 / $25
Child (under 12): $13 / $15
Opening Night Season Ticket
Our biggest savings! Buy tickets to all three opening performances and save up to 67%!
Adults: $60
Seniors (62 & up): $45
Children (under 12): $15
All performances at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center,
150 E. Wood Street, Palatine, IL 60067
Cutting Hall is a facility owned and operated by the Palatine Park District.
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Regular Box Office Hours:
In-Person ticket purchasing available two hours prior to any show start time,
and by appointment by calling 847.202.5222.