A vibrant new destination for live theater is taking center stage on the Alabama Gulf Coast as Gulf Coast Rep opens its brand-new location in Downtown OWA. The curtain rises on this exciting new chapter as OWA Parks & Resort welcomes the talented team led by Alabama native and artistic director Darren Butler.

The Gulf Coast Rep is set to provide another opportunity to advance theater, while sharing impactful stories to inspire audiences. The new Playhouse, previously the Bohemian in Downtown OWA, seats 250 people and serves as a launchpad for new plays and musicals, some of which could find their way to prestigious platforms like Broadway, Off-Broadway or even London’s West End. The intimate space immerses audiences in live theater – giving patrons an up-close-and-personal experience.

“We are thrilled to have Gulf Coast Rep as part of the OWA Parks & Resort entertainment destination,” said Catherine Hasty, Manager of Marketing, OWA Parks & Resort. “In addition to great live theater, this new location on our property will provide their guests with a variety of restaurants and shopping on site, helping to create a fun experience overall. We are excited for this opportunity for us to collaborate with the theater and continue to be a great community partner,” said Hasty.

Expanding its reach beyond the stage, the organization plans to launch educational programming during the 2025-26 academic year. A professional touring troupe will bring classic children’s literature, reading list favorites, and compelling one-person historical shows to the schools.

“We are incredibly excited to be a part of the OWA community. As a launchpad for new work, patrons will have the opportunity to discover new plays and musicals for the American theatre. To take an idea from page to stage is a process. There is so much The Gulf Coast Rep has to offer our tourists and our local community. WATCH a performance. PARTICIPATE in an acting class or work on a show. SUPPORT working artists! SHOP at our Gulf Coast Rep store opening March 1st. Come be a part of the arts!”

The first production of their inaugural season at the new Playhouse in Downtown OWA is the southern classic Steel Magnolias. Opening on January 30th, the beloved classic features eight performances.

The season continues with other scheduled performances including Runaway Home, a new musical with books and lyrics by Butler, followed by The House on the Hill with dates in April and May, and this June, audiences can enjoy Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical.

For more information, details on upcoming shows and ticket information visit their website at https://www.gulfcoastrep.com/home.