SEBRING — As Highlands Lakeside Theatre enters it’s 50th year, the organization continues to produce a diverse range of shows and events for the community. The 2023-2024 Blackman Stage Series will feature several exciting productions, including “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “A Higher Place in Heaven,” “We Will Rock You,” “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” and “Freaky Friday.”

Get ready for a sensational theatrical experience as “Jesus Christ Superstar” opens up the season from November 3-19, 2023. “Superstar” is a global phenomenon that has wowed audiences for over 50 years, set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events. The first musical by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice to be produced for the professional stage, the timeless rock opera tells the story of the last days of Jesus from the perspective of Judas Iscariot. Directed by Laura Wade and Jen Westergom. Auditions for singers, movers and actors are July 25, 27, 2023 at 6 p.m. and July 29, 2023 at 9 a.m.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see “A Higher Place in Heaven,” written by Pamela Parker and directed by Tom Staik, from January 12-28, 2024. This moving play follows the story of unlikely friendships and family secrets, and is a prequel to HLT audience favorite, “Second Samuel.” You’ll discover how Frisky, a privileged white boy, and U.S., a young African American boy descended from slaves, formed a friendship in pre-depression era rural Georgia. This touching story is filled with laughter and tears, anger and forgiveness, and showcases how love and grace can unite people of different backgrounds and keep hope alive. Auditions are scheduled for October 23, 24 and 26, 2023 at 6 pm. Don’t miss your chance to see this powerful performance.

Get ready to rock with “We Will Rock You,” the third show of the season. This jukebox musical, with a book by Ben Elton, is based on the iconic music of British rock legends, Queen. Set in a future where individuality is suppressed, a group of Bohemians fight to restore free expression and live music. Featuring 24 of Queen’s biggest hits, including “We Are the Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Radio Ga Ga,” and “Don’t Stop Me Now,” this show is sure to leave you awestruck. Directed by Tammie Pollard, “We Will Rock You” will run from March 29 to April 14, 2024. Auditions will be held on November 13, 14, and 16, 2023 at 6 pm.

Coming to the HLT stage in June 2024 is Neil Simon’s “Brighton Beach Memoirs.” Set in Brooklyn during the Great Depression in 1937, the play follows fifteen-year-old Eugene Jerome and his family living in Brighton Beach. Eugene is an intelligent teenager with a sharp wit who is preoccupied with girls and dreams of becoming a star pitcher for the New York Yankees. As he guides us through his “memoirs,” Eugene shares astute observations and insights into his family’s experiences, showing how they face life’s challenges with resilience, pride, and a great sense of humor. The play is directed by Pete Pollard and will run from June 3 to June 23. Auditions will be held on April 8, 9, and 11, 2024, at 6 p.m.

Next season’s final series show promises to be a magical musical adaptation of the classic novel by Mary Rodgers. With a book by Bridget Carpenter, music by Tom Kitt, and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, “Freaky Friday” is the perfect blend of humor and heart. Follow the journey of teenager Ellie Blake and her mother Katherine, as they experience the weirdest, strangest, craziest, and freakiest day of their lives. When a magical switch happens and mother and daughter swap bodies, they spend a day learning about each other and the struggles they each face. Directed by Aslan Smith and Rhonda Wilson, this musical will run from August 23 to September 8, 2024. Auditions for the show will be held on May 20, 21 and 23, 2024, at 6 p.m.

All auditions are open, unless otherwise noted. Stay in the loop by following us on Facebook, where we post notices, requirements, and character descriptions. We welcome all aspiring actors to try out.

Performances are Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Subscription packages go on sale to the public on August 18. Full Season packages start at $100 and Winter Triple Play packages start at $60. Individual tickets to any 2023-2024 show goes on sale 10/10 at 10. Single tickets start at $25.

Before this current season ends, the highly anticipated “Ghost the Musical” is set to run this June 2 to June 18, followed by the closing show of the year, “Sister Act the Musical,” which will be on stage from August 18 to September 3, 2023.

Don’t miss out on the exclusive FirstNighters Club, which is a special celebration of the opening night of each subscription series show. As a member, you’ll enjoy light refreshments, happy hour in Anthony’s Lounge, a walk on the red carpet, and other perks. The best part? Attending a Series opening night automatically makes you a member, free of charge.

Order your tickets or packages today through any of these convenient methods:

• Visit our website at HighlandsLakesideTheatre.org
• Call the Box Office at 863-382-2525
• Visit us at 356 W. Center Avenue, Sebring during Box Office hours: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m, and one hour before showtime.

We are proud to be a volunteer organization and always welcome new volunteers. Consider becoming a member to enjoy additional benefits while supporting our community-based performing arts. If you have any inquiries, please contact us at hltsebring@gmail.com.