Performances & Events 2026 / 27 Season
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
So much to do, so close to home.
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2026/27 Season Welcome DMT Presents Series Featured Performances & Events DMT Rental Information Cover: Neverland by DLUX Puppets
2026/27 Season Welcome We are proud to welcome you to an exciting new season of DMT Presents, featuring a thoughtfully curated mix of theatre, music, puppetry, and family entertainment that reflects the vibrant interests of audiences throughout the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District. As a cornerstone of the Bay Area’s cultural community, the Douglas Morrisson Theatre continues to thrive because of the enthusiasm and support of our audiences, artists, and community partners. We believe that live performance has the power to inspire, connect, and create lasting memories, and we cannot wait to share this remarkable new season with you. Highlights and Innovations A Season for the Whole Family: An expanded selection of youth and family programming, including puppetry, fairy tales, classic children’s literature, and imaginative theatrical experiences. Exceptional Theatre and Musicals: Classic productions for mature audiences, including The Glass Menagerie and Hillbarn Theatre’s grand presentation of Hello, Dolly!
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Expanded Cultural Partnerships: Continued collaboration with valued community and resident arts organizations, including the West Coast Blues Society, California Revels, Hillbarn Theatre, and other regional performing arts partners. Growing Artist Incubation Program: Continued support for local artists and emerging performing arts organizations, including the addition of Sweet Thunder, a new local Shakespeare company. Music, Storytelling, and Cultural Traditions: A diverse range of performances that bring together blues, American history, traditional storytelling, theatre, and music.
DMT Presents Series
The captivating DMT Presents Series is a curated collection of exceptional performances that promise to transport you to new realms of imagination and emotion. Immerse yourself in a world of diverse storytelling, where each production is a carefully crafted masterpiece designed to ignite your senses and deepen your appreciation for live performance. DMT Presents also spotlights the Resident Artist Program who are exceptional local performing artists or those that strongly reflect the cultural interests of our community.
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The Glass Menagerie SPARC THEATER
SEPTEMBER 18-20 2026 | $46-54
Experience Tennessee Williams’ timeless American classic, The Glass Menagerie. Told through the memories of Tom Wingfield, the play follows a family caught between responsibility, longing, and the hope of a different life. Tom dreams of escaping his demanding home life, his mother Amanda clings to memories of a more promising past, and his sensitive sister Laura finds comfort in her collection of delicate glass animals. When a long-awaited gentleman caller arrives, the family’s hopes for the future are briefly renewed. Poignant, intimate, and beautifully written, The Glass Menagerie is an unforgettable exploration of family, memory, and the fragile dreams we hold closest. SPARC Theatre is dedicated to highquality, thought-provoking theatre that entertains, builds empathy, and strengthens the local community.
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Nutcracker Piñata EAST BAY CENTER FOR THE PRESERVATION OF CULTURAL ARTS
NOVEMBER 28-29 2026 | $35-40
DMT RESIDENT
ARTIST
Experience a joyful new twist on a beloved holiday classic with Nutcracker Piñata. This vibrant production blends the magic of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker with traditional Mexican music, folklórico dance, and dazzling costumes, creating a festive cultural celebration for the whole family. Follow Clara as her enchanted Nutcracker leads her on an imaginative journey through the diverse regions of Mexico. Along the way, audiences will encounter exhilarating dances, colorful traditions, and lively celebrations that transform the familiar story into a uniquely Mexican holiday adventure. Presented by Ballet Folklórico México Danza, Nutcracker Piñata has become an annual holiday tradition that showcases the beauty, energy, and artistry of Mexican folklórico dance. Filled with movement, music, and seasonal wonder, this spirited production offers an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages. Based in Hayward for over 30 years, Ballet Folklórico México Danza was founded by René González with collaboration from Martín Romero of Mexico City.
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Midwinter Revels: American Crossroads CALIFORNIA REVELS
DECEMBER 11-13, 18-20, 2026 | $30-50
Journey through America’s rich and varied cultural landscape in American Crossroads. Through traditional songs, spirited folk dances, storytelling, and theatrical pageantry, this joyful production brings to life stories of migration, resilience, community, and celebration. Moving across regions and generations, the performance explores the many people and traditions that have contributed to the American experience. Music and movement come together to highlight moments of hardship, hope, change, and connection, creating a lively theatrical journey that is both reflective and uplifting. Rooted in winter solstice traditions, American Crossroads invites audiences of all ages to welcome the turning of the year with warmth, humor, and a shared sense of celebration. For 40 years, California Revels has created immersive, intergenerational performances that connect audiences through music, history, and shared tradition.
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Blue Valentine STELLA HEATH
FEBRUARY 13, 2027 | $30
Celebrate Valentine’s season with Blue Valentine, Stella Heath’s annual tribute to the many moods of love. Blending jazz, swing, and blues, this special concert explores romance in all its forms—from anticipation and devotion to longing, heartbreak, and resilience. With expressive vocals, elegant phrasing, and a captivating stage presence, Heath brings warmth and emotional depth to timeless songs from the Great American Songbook and the golden ages of jazz and swing. Her interpretations honor the spirit of classic vocalists while offering a fresh, personal perspective that makes each performance feel intimate and immediate. Returning each year as a beloved Valentine’s tradition, Stella offers audiences an evening that is both sophisticated and heartfelt. Whether celebrating with a partner, friends, or simply a love of great music, guests can enjoy a program filled with memorable melodies, rich storytelling, and the irresistible rhythms of jazz and blues. Stella Heath is a Bay Area vocalist and bandleader known for her vibrant performances of classic jazz, swing, and blues.
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Jack and the Beanstalk FANTASY FORUM
FEBUARY 21, 2027 | $15
Join Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble for a magical journey into the world of Jack and the Beanstalk! With colorful characters, playful humor, and plenty of theatrical magic, this beloved fairy tale comes to life for young audiences and their families. Follow Jack as he trades his cow for a handful of magical beans and embarks on a daring adventure high above the clouds in the land of a fearsome giant. Filled with laughter, excitement, and memorable characters, this lively presentation is perfect for children and the young at heart.
Founded by Scott Denison, Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble has entertained Bay Area families for more than 50 years with lively, interactive productions filled with music, humor, and imaginative storytelling.
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Rhythms of Resilience WEST COAST BLUES SOCIETY
MARCH 6, 2027 | $25
DMT RESIDENT
ARTIST
Celebrate Black history, culture, and musical innovation with Rhythms of Resilience, a lively concert led by Bay Area blues musician and cultural advocate Ronnie Stewart. Blending blues, soul, funk, gospel, and rhythm and blues, this upbeat performance honors the artists and musical traditions that have shaped generations of American music. Featuring soulful vocals, infectious grooves, spirited musicianship, and plenty of personality, Rhythms of Resilience highlights the powerful connections between these musical styles while celebrating creativity, perseverance, cultural pride, and joy. Audiences can expect a vibrant mix of classic sounds, funky rhythms, and highenergy performances designed to inspire and get the room moving. West Coast Blues Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting blues, jazz, and gospel while ensuring that the musicians and communities behind this music continue to be recognized and celebrated.
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Neverland DLUX PUPPETS
MARCH 14, 2027 | $25
Take flight with Peter Pan, Wendy, and Tinker Bell in this imaginative multimedia adventure to Neverland. Along the way, audiences will encounter the mischievous Lost Boys, daring pirates, and the fearsome Captain Hook in a fresh adaptation of the beloved story. Featuring life-sized puppets, live performers, spectacular digital scenery, and popular songs from the 1950s through the 1980s, Neverland creates a colorful theatrical world filled with music, humor, and adventure. Children will be swept into the excitement, while adults will enjoy the production’s playful energy and familiar soundtrack. At the heart of the story is an uplifting reminder that fear should never crowd out our dreams. Created for audiences of all ages, this lively family production celebrates courage, imagination, and the magic of believing in new possibilities. DLUX Puppets is a Las Vegas–based production company with roots in the Bay Area known for combining innovative puppetry, live performance, music, and digital scenery to create imaginative family productions.
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The Very Hungry Caterpillar ROCKAFELLER PRODUCTIONS
MAY 4, 2027 | $20
Eric Carle’s beloved stories leap from the page to the stage in The Very Hungry Caterpillar show, a colorful theatrical experience created especially for young children and their families. Featuring vibrant scenery, lively original music, and 45 beautifully handcrafted puppets, the production captures the warmth, wonder, and distinctive visual style of Carle’s timeless books. Audiences will follow the unforgettable Very Hungry Caterpillar on his journey of discovery and transformation while enjoying three additional Eric Carle classics brought to life through world-class puppetry. Children are invited to move, sing, and play along as familiar characters fill the stage in an imaginative, interactive celebration of curiosity and creativity. Created by acclaimed familyentertainment producer Jonathan Rockefeller, this joyful hour-long production offers a welcoming introduction to live theatre for the youngest audience members. Filled with color, humor, music, and magical surprises, The Very Hungry Caterpillar show is an unforgettable outing for the entire family.
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Hello, Dolly! HILLBARN THEATRE
MAY 14-16, 21-23, 2027 | $45
Step into a world of romance, laughter, and spectacular musical theatre with Hillbarn Theatre’s grand presentation of Hello, Dolly! This beloved Broadway classic follows the irrepressible Dolly Gallagher Levi, a spirited matchmaker who travels to Yonkers to find a suitable companion for wealthy merchant Horace Vandergelder— while secretly planning a match of her own. As Dolly’s clever arrangements bring together an unforgettable cast of dreamers, lovers, and adventurers, a simple matchmaking mission becomes a joyful celebration of second chances. Filled with humor, heart, dazzling dance, and larger-than-life theatrical moments, Hello, Dolly! reminds us that it is never too late to rejoin the parade and embrace everything life has to offer. Featuring Jerry Herman’s iconic score, including “Put On Your Sunday Clothes,” “Before the Parade Passes By,” and the show-stopping title number, this vibrant musical promises an uplifting experience.
Hillbarn Theatre has been a cornerstone of the Bay Area arts scene since its founding in 1941. Hillbarn Theatre offers a diverse range of productions, from classic plays to contemporary musicals.
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Featured Performances & Events
Featured Performances & Events are additional notable performances in our performing arts season. Get ready to be enchanted by an outstanding tapestry of community events that bring people together through the arts. This year we are also pleased to host upcoming local talent through our Incubation Program which provides support to performance groups with a special project that will help them grow an audience or test out a new idea.
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East Bay Center for The Preservation of Cultural Arts Día De Los Muertos OCT 17-18, 2026 | $35-40
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with México Danza through a vibrant performance of traditional Mexican dance, music, and colorful costumes. This moving cultural presentation honors the memories of loved ones while celebrating life, family, and community.
Una Celebración Para las Madres MAY 7-8, 2027 | $35-40
Celebrate the strength, beauty, and love of mothers at Una Celebración Para las Madres, a joyful Ballet Folklórico performance honoring maternal figures through vibrant dance, colorful costumes, and traditional Mexican music. This heartfelt showcase blends regional styles and rhythms in a spirited tribute to the women who nurture, lead, and inspire us. Perfect for the whole family, the event uplifts cultural pride and community connection while paying homage to motherhood in all its forms.
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Douglas Morrisson Theatre Chorus Under the direction of renowned Cesar Cancino, the Douglas Morrisson Theatre Chorus explores music of all genres worldwide. Following tradition, the season's first concert will feature holiday music.
Holiday Concert DECEMBER 4-6, 2026
Spring Concert APRIL 2 & 4, 2027
Summer Concert AUGUST 6 & 8, 2027
All tickets are $20 for Adults, $18 for Seniors, and $12 for Youth.
Join the Chorus! The chorus is open to all singers ages 18 and older. No prior experience is needed. To join, register for a class based on your voice type (soprano, alto, tenor, or bass). Register online at haywardrec.org.
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H.A.R.D. Youth Conservatory Young artists shine on and off stage through camps and productions that build skills in acting, voice, movement, and the technical theater arts. To enroll, check the current Recreation Guides, today!
Cinderella & Moana FALL 2026 & WINTER 2027
Join us for the youth productions of Cinderella and Moana at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre, where talented young performers bring these beloved classic to life with heartwarming songs and timeless storytelling. Under the direction of Ish Amitoj Kaur, these fall and winter classes train students in acting, singing, and movement, culminating in a fully staged performance for family and friends.
Summer Youth Theater and Camp Do Re Mi SUMMER 2027
Discover an exciting summer of youth theatre at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre! Camp Do Re Mi invites young performers ages 5–12 to build their skills, make new friends, and shine in fully staged musical productions. Youth can also explore their creativity and confidence through our funfilled improv program and a variety of oneand two-week camps for different ages and experience levels. 15
INCUBATION
Project
Macbeth SWEET THUNDER SHAKESPEARE OCTOBER 2, 2026 | $25-35
Enter a world of prophecy, ambition, and consequences in Sweet Thunder Shakespeare’s production of Macbeth. When three mysterious witches predict that Macbeth will become king, he and Lady Macbeth pursue the crown through a ruthless course of betrayal and violence. Shakespeare’s gripping tragedy examines the seductive pull of power, the burden of guilt, and the destruction caused by unchecked ambition. Created through experimentation and exploration in the Douglas Morrisson Theatre’s Incubation Program, this production combines inventive staging and a direct, actor-centered performance style. The theatre’s intimate setting brings performers and audiences together, making Shakespeare’s language immediate, engaging, and easy to follow. Sweet Thunder Shakespeare is building a sustained ensemble of experienced professionals, emerging artists, educators, and musicians committed to creating theatre that is seen, heard, and understood.
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Summer Theatre Events Hayward World Dance Festival JUNE 5, 2027 | $10
As part of the Douglas Morrisson Theatre's summer events, the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District will hold the third annual World Dance Festival. Showcasing local talent, the festival will highlight cultural dance from our diverse community. From Ballet Folklórico to Indian classical dance, it will surely be an afternoon filled with vibrant performances.
Bedtime Theatre WEDNESDAYS, JULY 7–28, 2027 | $10
Back by popular demand, a weekly offering of children-centered performers and films to engage your child and provide some pre-bedtime entertainment. Attendees can wear their pajamas and bring their favorite stuffed animal. Milk & cookies will be served after the show. Shows are geared for children ages 2 through 7. Please note: Everyone attending must have a ticket.
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Rental Programs: The Warehouse at Winton & Douglas Morrisson Theatre The Warehouse at Winton
Rent the DMT
Step into a world of imagination and transformation with our costume and prop rental program! We are thrilled to offer a curated collection of enchanting costumes that will transport you to different eras, characters, and realms.
We are thrilled to announce the muchawaited launch of our Theater Rental Program, where creativity takes center stage and every spotlight is yours to command! A Stage Like No Other: Are you a theater company seeking a venue to bring your production to life? Or perhaps a dance group in search of the perfect space? Our performing arts facility is ready for you and any individual or group presentation.
FOR WEBSITE
Explore Our Catalog: Visit our website http://hard.ezrentalstore.com to browse through our extensive costume collection and props. For Inquiries and Bookings: Reach out to us at gred@haywardrec.org.
Your Vision, Your Time: With flexible scheduling options, you can create the perfect event timeline that suits your production's needs and captures your audience's hearts. For Inquiries and Bookings: Reach out to us at dmtrentals@haywardrec.org.
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Douglas Morrisson Theatre Information ARTISTIC & ADMINISTRATIVE
CONTACT INFORMATION
Alice Rice
General Inquiry
RECREATION SUPERVISOR ARTS & CULTURAL EVENTS
ARTS@HAYWARDREC.ORG (510) 881-6700
Devin Gregory
Rentals
RECREATION COORDINATOR II ARTS & DRAMA
DMTRENTALS@HAYWARDREC.ORG (510) 881-6733
DMT Arts Access DMT Arts Access offers opportunities for local public schools to experience performing arts in-person and behind the scenes through open dress rehearsals and workshops at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre. Arts Access, supported by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District, aims to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the arts. For more information on Arts Access please email: arts@haywardrec.org
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TO VIEW ONLINE
Hayward Area Recreation & Park District
Douglas Morrisson Theatre 22311 N 3rd Street Hayward, CA 94546 510-881-6777 arts@haywardrec.org
District Office 1099 E Street Hayward, CA 94541 510-881-6700 haywardrec.org/theater