EAST LANSING, MI – Wharton Center welcomes a fantastic selection of performances this September: a fan-favorite of Broadway, a creative new endeavor, and a timeless classic will be sure to impress. Tickets are available now at Wharton Center’s Ticket Office, online at whartoncenter.com, or by calling 517.432.2000 or 1.800.WHARTON.
BEETLEJUICE
Sept 18-20
Cobb Great Hall
After a thrilling Broadway three-peat, BEETLEJUICE rises again! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, Tony Award® nominated BEETLEJUICE is “A FEAST FOR THE EYES AND SOUL!” (Entertainment Weekly). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!
DISCOVERY: A NEW MUSICAL
NEW MUSICAL LABORATORY
Sept 24-27
Pasant Theatre
Discovery tells the story of the NASA astronaut corps after the 1986 Challenger tragedy and the lead-up to the 1988 launch of Space Shuttle Discovery. Following Dr. Sally Ride on her journey from iconic astronaut’s astronaut to queer outsider speaking truth to power, along with the astronaut corps’ rocky journey back to space, Discovery dives deep into how catastrophe and grief can catalyze self-discovery, reinvention, and healing. This special new musical is developed through the New Musical Laboratory at Michigan State University, a collaboration between the Department of Theatre and Wharton Center for Performing Arts. From the co-producers of the Tony Award® winning Cats: The Jellicle Ball on Broadway, chance to see a new show before it heads to a wider audience.
WORLD BALLET COMPANY: SWAN LAKE
Sun, Sept 27
Cobb Great Hall
The legendary tale of Swan Lake takes flight in a breathtaking production from World Ballet Company, as fate and magic entwine in a timeless battle between good and evil. With Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score soaring through the air and played live, immerse yourself in this mesmerizing journey where dreams, heartbreak, and hope unfold right before your eyes.
BEETLEJUICE
Date/Time: Sept 18-20, 2026
- Fri, Sept 18, at 8PM
- Sat, Sept 19, at 2PM and 7:30PM
- Sun, Sept 20, at 1PM and 6:30PM
DISCOVERY: A NEW MUSICAL
NEW MUSIC LABORATORY
Date/Time: Sept 24-27, 2026
- Thurs, Sept 24, at 8PM
- Fri, Sept 25, at 7:30PM
- Sun, Sept 27, at 2PM
WORLD BALLET COMPANY: SWAN LAKE
Date/Time: Sun, Sept 27, 2026, 7PM
