Compass Rose Theater Announces 2026-2027 Season

Live Professional Theater Coming To The Annapolis Mall

Posted Thursday, August 6, 2026 12:02 pm

Compass Rose Theater, a professional theater and educational nonprofit in Annapolis, unveiled its 2026–2027 season — a celebration of friendship and inspiration — and announced a new partnership with Live Arts Studio at the Annapolis Mall.

The new season opens September 18 with the beloved family musical “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” based on Charles Schulz’s iconic “Peanuts” comic strip.

“We’re thrilled to share these inspiring shows and new venue with our audience. In addition to an exciting lineup, we’re introducing a four-show flex pass subscription with discounted pricing, reserved seating, and Friday guest passes for opening nights,” said Barbara Webber, executive director of Compass Rose Theater. “Our new partnership with Live Arts Studio creates an exciting opportunity to bring professional live theater to the Annapolis Mall, inviting audiences to enjoy an evening out — perhaps even dinner and a live show.”

As part of its new collaboration with Live Arts Studio, Compass Rose will present three productions. Following the Charlie Brown opening musical are the heartwarming holiday favorite “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” and the poignant romantic comedy “Almost, Maine.”

“Live Arts is happy to support and sponsor performances by Compass Rose Theater this season,” said Ernie Green, artistic director of Live Arts Studio. “We are looking forward to an exciting season of vibrant and engaging performances together.”

In March 2027, Compass Rose will return to Maryland Hall to perform “Godspell,” closing the official 2026—2027 season on a high note. More shows may be added this spring and summer. For more information, go to www.compassrosetheater.org.

Season Lineup

“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”

Directed by Tracy Adler, Music Direction by Barrett Johnson

September 18 — October 4, 2026

Charlie Brown and the entire “Peanuts” gang explore life’s great questions as they play baseball, struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over their crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship. Based on the comic strip by Charles Schulz. Book, music and lyrics by Clark Gesne.

“It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play”

Directed by Gary Goodson

November 20 — December 5, 2026

Bringing Frank Capra’s classic film to the stage, this radio play adaptation tells the heartwarming tale of George Bailey as he reflects on his life on Christmas Eve. Adapted by Joe Landry. Based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern.

“Almost, Maine”

Directed by Madeline Austin

January 15 — February 7, 2027

On a clear, moonless night in the middle of winter, all is not what it seems in the remote town of Almost, Maine. As the northern lights hover in the sky above, Almost’s residents find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. By Jonathan Cariani.

“Godspell”

Directed by Tracy Adler

March 5-21, 2027

Prepare for the timeless tale of friendship, loyalty and love, based on the “Gospel of St. Matthew.” “Godspell” was the first major musical theater offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Pippin,” “Children of Eden”), and it took the world by storm. Conceived and originally directed by John Michael Tebelak. Music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz.