An ogre, a love story, Irish dancers, a rom-com and two notorious murderesses are set to take the stage this season at the Columbia County Performing Arts Center.

While the previous lineups included four shows, the 2024-25 Broadway in Columbia County series will feature one-night showings of five musicals.

“Our goal is to bring in entertainment options for the community, and we had an opportunity to add an additional show this year,” says Katie Cason, the PAC assistant general manager. “We’re thrilled to have five shows.”

The season kicks off on Friday, October 4 with Shrek the Musical. Based on the Oscar-winning animated film, Shrek tells the story of a lovable ogre who finds himself on a life-changing journey with a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.

“People of all ages know and love the story of Shrek,” says Cason.

On Monday, December 2, Hadestown will take the stage. Winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and the Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album, this show is a timeless love story. The musical intertwines the lives of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice and of King Hades and his wife, Persephone, as it takes the audience on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back.

“Hadestown has been in the market before, but people aren’t as familiar with that name,” Cason says. “I think people will be excited to see it for that reason. It’s a great story of mythical tales.”

The third show, Riverdance 30 – The New Generation, is a twist on an old favorite with new choreography and costumes. As part of its special 30th anniversary tour, the show – perfect for a date night – is scheduled for Friday, February 14.

On Thursday, April 24, Pretty Woman: The Musical will offer a fresh take on a favorite Hollywood rom-com. “People know and love this storyline, so I think it will be popular,” says Cason.

The season wraps up on Wednesday, May 14 with Chicago. The story, set in the Windy City’s Jazz Age, follows two of Cook County Jail’s most notorious murderesses – vaudeville star Velma Kelly and chorus girl Roxie Hart – as they become fierce rivals in their competition for headlines amid a media frenzy.