BY OBSERVER STAFF
OPELIKA — East Alabama Arts has announced its 2026-27 Performance Series, featuring a new lineup, expanded educational programming and partnerships with Opelika City Schools, the Opelika High School Theatre Society and Southern Union State Community College.
The new season follows the cancellation of the organization’s 2025-26 Performance Series, a decision East Alabama Arts leaders said was necessary to allow time to evaluate the organization’s programming and determine the best path forward.
“We sincerely apologize for the disruption caused by the cancellation and remain grateful for the patience and continued support of our patrons and community partners,” the organization said in a press release.
During the past year, the East Alabama Arts board said it has worked to refocus the organization on its mission of developing innovative programming that stimulates interest in the arts, encourages learning through the arts and broadens participation in support of the arts.
The 2026-27 Performance Series will include:
- Nobuntu
- Andrew Sords String Trio
- Southern Union Dancers
- Brass Queens
Although the upcoming series will look different from previous seasons, organizers said the new structure will allow East Alabama Arts to offer more accessible ticket prices, strengthen community partnerships and expand educational opportunities.
Nobuntu and Brass Queens will also present performances and additional educational programming for Opelika City Schools students. East Alabama Arts has renewed its partnership with the school system to provide cultural and artistic experiences for local students.
The organization is also beginning a new partnership with the Opelika High School Theatre Society.
Season ticket buyers will have the option to add a package for the theatre society’s three-show 2026-27 season, featuring “Come From Away,” “As Ever” and “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka.”
East Alabama Arts will also partner with Southern Union State Community College in several areas, including hosting a performance of the Southern Union Dancers’ spring show as part of the Performance Series.
The organization said it is working to renew existing grants and secure additional grant funding and corporate sponsorships to help offset performance and operating costs. The revised season structure has allowed East Alabama Arts to significantly reduce ticket prices in an effort to make its programming more accessible and increase attendance. Two performances will also be presented as weekend matinees.
Season tickets and ticket packages are now available.
For additional information about the 2026-27 Performance Series or to purchase tickets, visit the East Alabama Arts website.
About East Alabama Arts
East Alabama Arts develops innovative programming to stimulate interest in the arts, encourage learning through the arts and broaden participation in support of the arts.
