Full Breakdown
Rainbow Stage Announces Ambitious 72nd Season
12/3/2025, 11:09:51 PM
Upcoming Productions
Rainbow Stage, the longest-running outdoor theatre company in Canada, is set to launch its 72nd season in June 2026, following a record-breaking previous year. The season will feature three major productions: *Jesus Christ Superstar*, *Legally Blonde: The Musical*, and *Fiddler on the Roof*. This marks the first time *Jesus Christ Superstar* will be performed at Kildonan Park, while *Legally Blonde* has also never been staged at this venue. *Fiddler on the Roof* will be co-produced with Winnipeg Jewish Theatre, making it the first Rainbow Stage production to take place under the dome in September.
Artistic director Carson Nattrass expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, noting that *Legally Blonde* has been a top request since he took the role in 2017. He stated, “I looked at my notes from when I first got this job, and I made a list of shows I’d like to do here, and there *Legally Blonde* was at the top of the list.”
Production Details
*Jesus Christ Superstar* will run from June 25 to July 12, directed by Sharon Bajer, who previously directed *Strike! The Musical* at Rainbow Stage. *Legally Blonde* is scheduled for August 13-30, with director Alexandra Herzog and choreographer Josh Assor returning for their third consecutive season. The musical will feature Renate Tabas as the musical director. The production of *Fiddler on the Roof* will be directed by Dan Petrenko and is set for September 9-13.
Renovations and Accessibility Improvements
In preparation for the new season, Rainbow Stage is undergoing extensive renovations funded by various levels of government and the Winnipeg Foundation. These renovations include updates to external walkways, the box office, and bathrooms to meet accessibility standards. Nattrass noted that while these improvements are necessary, they will result in the loss of the theatre's exterior mural, which has been in place since 2009. Plans are underway to enhance the theatre's appearance with additional color to the concrete structure.
Criticism & Opposition
While the renovations and new productions have been met with excitement, some community members have expressed concerns regarding the loss of the mural and the impact of construction on the theatre's aesthetic. Critics argue that the mural has become a significant part of the venue's identity and should be preserved.
What's Next
As Rainbow Stage prepares for its ambitious summer lineup, the company is also focused on completing renovations before the season begins. The upcoming productions are anticipated to draw significant audiences, building on the success of previous sellouts, including *Frozen* in 2025.
Verbatim Quotes
“I looked at my notes from when I first got this job, and I made a list of shows I’d like to do here, and there Legally Blonde was at the top of the list.” — Carson Nattrass, Artistic Director
“Speaking with the Free Press Monday, Petrenko said the show will feature a full, onstage orchestra, and that while he was excited to begin casting discussions, he couldn’t offer any hints at his top picks for Tevye, Golde, Tzeitel or Lazar Wolf.” — Dan Petrenko, Artistic Director of Winnipeg Jewish Theatre
