The Grackle

Observations, Reflections and Miscellany from the Wacoan

2026 Fall Theater Guide

Upcoming comedies, musicals and can’t-miss performances

2 months ago

By Camille Kelly

The fall season is the perfect time to get in on the local theater scene, with so many stellar performances, musical productions, standup comedy shows, improv nights, live concerts and more happening all around Waco. From heartwarming family stories, to jaw-dropping thrillers, we don’t want you to miss the lineup of all the local and visiting talent. Luckily for you, we’re back with another round up of all the theater performances you can find around town.

Keep an eye out for our winter theater guide showcasing all of the performances from November to February!

Waco Civic Theatre

1517 Lake Air Drive
Waco Civic Theatre is bringing both humor and heart to their stage this fall, opening the season with the hit contemporary musical, “Dear Evan Hansen,” followed by more award-winning musical and stage plays. And just in time for Halloween to get you in the spooky spirit, see their performance of the stage thriller, “Wait Until Dark.” To find tickets to any or all of their fall productions, see here.

“Dear Evan Hansen,” August 13–30, 2 and 7 p.m.
“Come From Away,” September 10–27, 2 and 7 p.m.
“Young Sherlock,” October 2–4, 2 and 7 p.m.
“Wait Until Dark,” October 22–November 2 and 7 p.m.

Waco Symphony Orchestra

624 Speight Ave.
The renowned Waco Symphony Orchestra has announced their lineup of upcoming concerts, beginning this season with Grieg’s Piano Concerto, performed by the WSO orchestra and internationally acclaimed pianist Orion Weiss. Then, in honor of Hispanic Heritage month, enjoy vibrant music inspired by Spain with multiple GRAMMY Award-winning guitarist Sharon Isbin. And as always, the orchestra will finish out the season with a concert dedicated to the spirit and excitement of beloved cinematic scores, this year’s featuring the original music from “Top Gun: Maverick.” To purchase concert tickets, see here.

“Impressions of Romanticism,” September 24, 7:30 p.m.
“Rhythm and Radiance,” October 15, 7:30 p.m.
“Top Gun: Maverick In Concert,” November 15, 2 p.m.

  

Performing Arts Community Center (PACC)

924 Austin Ave., Ste. 150
Enjoy high-energy shows to remember this fall season at the PACC. From interactive improvisations to special showcase performances, you can immerse yourself in a variety of the arts, with laugh-out-loud comedy shows and all the fun upcoming community events.
Celebrate the PACC’s two year anniversary and all their work to facilitate and support the arts in the community on September 5 from 6–9 p.m. This fundraiser features performances, dinner, champagne, a silent auction, live auction, special guests and more party vibes! Tickets are $25 per person and include food and drink.
Visit the PACC website to keep up with shows and upcoming events. Plus, while you’re out, stop in at PACCoffee, a creatives coffee shop for everyone to enjoy!

“Land Ho! A Pirate’s Life for Tease,” August 21, 8 p.m. (18+)
Official Kyngdom Tour Comedy Show, August 28-29, 8 p.m.
“Pokémon LIVE!,” August 29, 7 p.m.
Don’t Tell Comedy Returns To Waco!, September 11, 8 p.m.
Brazos Theatre Improv, September 12, 7:30 p.m.
WAW Wrestling Presents: “Army of Two: Part 1,” September 13, 5:30 p.m.
“Canterbury Tales” Cast Talent Showcase, September 18, 7 p.m.
Trinity Reign Church of God Presents: “My Sister’s Keeper,” September 19, 6 p.m.
“Dungeons & Dragons LIVE: The Quest for the Princess’s Heart,” September 26, TBD
Prosper Youth Theatre Fall Show, October 1–4, TBD
Brazos Theatre October Stand Up Comedy Show, October 3, 7:30 p.m.
“MIND AWAKEN,” October 9, 6:30 p.m.
Brazos Theatre October Stand Up Comedy Show, October 17, 8 p.m.
WAW Wrestling Presents: “Army of Two: Part 2,” October 18, 5:30 p.m.
Silent House Presents: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show Musical,” October 23–31

Baylor Theatre

60 Baylor Ave.
Baylor Theatre mainstage shows are back this fall, kicking off their season with the stage adaption of Jane Austen’s classic novel, “Sense & Sensibility.” Tales of love, heartache, murder and more mayhem continue through the fall season with exciting performances such as the film-noir style drama “Earth and Sky,” and a play adapted from an ancient Greek tragedy, “Big Love.” To secure season tickets, see here.

“Sense & Sensibility,” September 29–October 3, 7:30 p.m., October 4, 2 p.m.
“Earth and Sky,” October 20 –24, 7:30 p.m., October 25, 2 p.m.
“Big Love,” November 10–14, 7:30 p.m., November 15, 2 p.m. 

McLennan Community College Theatre

1400 College Drive
The season returns at McLennan Theatre with an absurd mystery that must be solved by none other than the super sleuth himself, Sherlock Holmes. The classic detective is reimagined on the stage of over 40 characters that would amuse even the Queen Victoria. Then, the sky’s the limit for Henrietta Leavitt, a pioneer for women in the world of astronomy in “Silent Sky.” Get your tickets here.

“Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery,” October 8–10, 7:30 p.m., October 11, 2 p.m.
“Silent Sky,” November 19–21, 7:30 p.m., November 22, 2 p.m.