Audience enthusiasm made the decision clear: LIZZIE: THE MUSICAL deserved an encore.

Oregon Contemporary Theatre’s Producing Artistic Director Craig Willis shared the sentiment he heard repeatedly from theatregoers: “LIZZIE was one of the best OCT productions ever!” Before the original run had even closed, OCT took an unprecedented step, asking the cast and production team to commit to bringing it back.

Now, this electrifying pop-rock musical returns to OCT’s stage. Fueled by riot-grrrl energy and powerhouse performances from its four-woman cast, LIZZIE reimagines one of America’s most notorious true-crime stories. Written by Alan Stevens Hewitt, Tim Maner, and Steven Cheslik-deMeyer, the musical follows Lizzie Borden through the volatile days surrounding the murders of her father and stepmother—and her infamous acquittal.

Brian McWhorter, Executive Director of ORCHESTRA NEXT on the set of LIZZIE (2025) Credit: BOB WILLIAMS

Last fall’s original production marked OCT’s first collaboration with Orchestra Next, a fellow nonprofit that brings students and professional musicians together. For Willis and Orchestra Next Executive Director Brian McWhorter, the response affirmed the partnership’s impact and the excitement of bringing LIZZIE back.

Abigail Moon as Lizzie

“We have been thrilled to work with Orchestra Next, whose commitment to exceptional musical experiences, opportunities for artists, and a vibrant cultural community aligns beautifully with OCT’s mission. Together, we celebrate what live theatre does best: bringing artists and audiences together to experience a story – and its music – in the same room.” – Craig Willis, Producing Artistic Director of OCT

The returning cast features Abigail Moon as Lizzie Borden, Kathleen Borrelli as Emma Borden, Jocelyn Kerr as Bridget, and Kelly Finch as Alice. Brian Haimbach directs, with scenic design by Amy Dunn, costume design by Laura Tuffli, lighting design by L’Via Rodriguez, properties design by Teiya Beyer, and production stage management by Riley Allen. LIZZIE runs October 24–November 8, with Pay What You Can previews October 21 and 22. Tickets are available at octheatre.org or by calling (541) 465-1506.

As LIZZIE returns, you can also secure your favorite seat for the rest of OCT’s season. Subscriptions for the remaining five shows start at $150 and include reserved seating, with 40% savings compared with individual ticket purchases.

Pictured from left to right: Jocelyn Kerr as Bridget, Abigail Moon as Lizzie & Kathleen Borrelli as Emma Borden

This subscription offer ends November 6. Call the box office at (541) 465-1506 to subscribe.

Beyond the regular season, OCT’s upcoming special events offer even more reasons to gather at the theatre—from a deeply personal solo performance to irreverent holiday comedy and beloved seasonal jazz.


SEE JANE RUN | November 20–22

Jane Vogel Mantiri, author of See Jane Run.

Jane Vogel Mantiri brings her moving solo memoir back to Eugene following standing ovations in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Exploring grief, resilience, and the search for hope through the lens of the American Indo dream, See Jane Run breaks a decades-long silence about fleeing post–World War II Indonesia. It gives voice to a fading culture while celebrating the enduring human spirit.

Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.


OY VEY IN A MANGER | December 11–13

The Kinsey Sicks are back! America’s Favorite—and only—Beautyshop Doo-wap Troupe returns with its signature Dragapella harmonies and outrageous holiday humor.

In Oy Vey in a Manger, the Kinseys must sell their manger—yes, that manger—before foreclosure. Secrets spill, Jewish-Gentile tensions flare, and mayhem follows, all in glorious vocal harmony. Expect a bawdy, blasphemous evening of holiday hilarity.

Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.


A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS | December 18–19

Celebrate the season with the José “Juicy” Gonzales Jazz Trio and Vince Guaraldi’s timeless music from the beloved Peanuts television special.

This family-friendly jazz concert pairs the unforgettable score with Juicy’s behind-the-scenes stories about creating A Charlie Brown Christmas. A holiday favorite for more than a decade, it’s a festive treat for music lovers of all ages.

Performances are Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.