At Benson Theatre, we believe that art is more than performance—it’s a powerful force for change, connection, and community. That’s why we’re proud to introduce the Artist Showcase Lab, a bold and transformative initiative designed to elevate local artists—particularly those from historically marginalized communities—and position them as leaders, storytellers, and changemakers in Omaha’s ever-growing creative landscape.

More than just a stage, the Showcase Lab is a launchpad. It provides the resources, mentorship, and production support artists need to turn bold ideas into fully realized, impactful performances. In doing so, the Lab not only supports the development of individual artists but also reinforces Benson Theatre’s role as a cornerstone of creative innovation within Omaha’s growing Creative District.

Empowering Artists at Every Stage

The Artist Showcase Lab operates with a two-pronged approach, ensuring that artists at all levels of experience have access to the tools they need to succeed:

1. Showcase Lab: Full-Scale Production Support
For artists ready to bring a completed vision to the stage, the Lab offers comprehensive production support, including access to a fully equipped theatre space, a dedicated production team, and a stipend to fairly compensate collaborators. This track also includes:

• Strategic mentorship and project guidance tailored to each artist’s needs.
• Monthly progress meetings, rehearsal time, and marketing support to help productions shine.

2. Solo Production Workshops: Pipeline for Emerging Artists
For those still developing their craft, the Lab offers an incubator program that nurtures new talent and prepares them for future full-scale productions. This track includes:

• A workshop that equips artists with professional skills to sustain their creative careers.
• A built-in community of peers to encourage collaboration and shared learning.

This dual approach ensures that the Showcase Lab isn’t just a program—it’s a sustainable ecosystem for artistic growth and opportunity.

Centering Diverse Voices and Building Community

At the heart of the Showcase Lab is a commitment to inclusivity and representation. By prioritizing voices that are often overlooked, we’re building a more vibrant, diverse, and equitable arts community that reflects the richness of Omaha itself.

The featured artists and groups selected for our 2025 Solo Production Workshops exemplify this mission. Chosen from a competitive pool of 23 applicants, their projects blend artistic excellence with meaningful social impact:

• Aaron Derell Gregory, a Black dancer and NYU Dance alum, returns to Omaha to curate a BIPOC-focused choreographer showcase featuring hip hop, jazz, heels, burlesque, and more—creating space for emerging dance voices to thrive.
• Darci Gamerl, a Latine musician, will combine live performance with original documentary film to explore Nebraska’s sandhill crane migration and the intersection of nature and modern life.
• Olajide Cooper, one of Omaha’s leading Black burlesque performers, debuts Encyclo-Tease-ia: A Deep Dive into the Variety of Burlesque. This expansive production includes performances by 10 local artists, mentorship from 12 visiting experts, and community workshops on dance, stage presence, and costume design.

Each of these works demonstrates the incredible potential that emerges when artists are given the freedom, support, and encouragement to share their truth.

Strengthening the Creative Infrastructure of Omaha

The impact of the Showcase Lab extends beyond the stage. By investing in our local artists, we’re also investing in the local economy, fostering cultural exchange, and amplifying Omaha’s reputation as a destination for the arts. This program is creating real momentum—strengthening partnerships between artists, businesses, and audiences while inspiring a new generation of creatives to dream big.

From script to spotlight, Benson Theatre’s Showcase Lab is building the infrastructure necessary for local artists to achieve regional and national recognition—and to do so on their own terms.

Stay tuned as these incredible artists take the stage and bring their stories to life. To support the Showcase Lab, donate to our program fund, attend upcoming performances, follow our featured artists, follow BT on social media, sign up for our newsletter, and help us spread the word: the future of Omaha’s arts scene is being written right now—and it’s more inclusive, more innovative, and more inspiring than ever.

The post Igniting Creative Power: Benson Theatre’s Artist Showcase Lab Ushers in a New Era of Local Artistry appeared first on Benson Theatre.

Written by Ben Webb, Photos by Marc Longbrake

I am a huge fan of horror, Stephen King, and well-done theater, and Ghost Brothers of Darkland County at the Benson Theatre hits it out of the park. It’s a sobering tale that serves as a visual and musical feast, giving you chills in all the right ways. You have never quite seen theater like this, so trust me when I say: do NOT miss it.

I could feel the play before it started, thanks in large part to the thought that went into utilizing the whole space as a stage. From the handheld lanterns to newsletters scattered about the story, to moving tree branches projected onto the walls accompanied by ambient outdoor noises, the immersive setting helps the viewer slip into the mood. Directors Madeline S. Radcliff and Jason Levering inform the crowd that this is the first time this updated version of the play has ever been performed—something the Omaha theater community should be proud of and spread the word about. But once it got underway, this cast grabs you by the lapel and slowly pulls you in closer and closer to the terror about to unfold. I cannot say enough about how amazing the stage and theater look for this play. It must be experienced.

Jack Zerbe commands the stage as the Caretaker. There is an air of mystery and playful menace about this character, as his narration drives the story forward without feeling heavy-handed or dull, even for a moment. Zerbe belts, chides, teases, and even tries to mentor at different points, and it is mesmerizing to watch. I have never seen an eyepatch pulled off so well. The story follows a pair of young couples that soon expand to include brothers—one from the present day and one from the past. Parallels and contrasts are played out before the audience, inviting you to guess where things are going. In true Stephen King fashion, even if you might get a “what?”, you won’t see the “how?” coming. The two sets of brothers—Andy (Allen Griffin) and Jack (Kevin Jones); Frank (Jude Glaser) and Drake (Matt Karasek)—play out their sibling tensions quite well as the story escalates the stakes with each new revelation. The looming outcome feels suffocating and terrifying as they battle through contests, songs, and one-upmanship. These actors commit so well to each moment that their facial expressions, reactions, and fights feel genuine and gritty. It is remarkable to watch them work the stage and push one another to give as good as they take.

Sophie Knauss (fellow comedian—way to go!) as Jenna and Mackenzie Zorn as Anna face the uncertainty of life’s next chapters with volume, bold behavior, and an “I dare you to keep up with me” attitude. Underneath, there is a steady heartbeat of fear, anxiety, and turmoil about whether they are making the right choices. The trip out to the cabin serves as the catalyst for unraveling their bravado and certainty, as well as lighting the fuse to the powder kegs of the men in their lives, caught in the horns of their well-intentioned indecision. I was captivated by their main songs and how they introduced themselves to us, as well as how they portrayed their slow tumble down from the hill they raced to the top of. I was touched by Sophie’s commitment to her choices, and Mackenzie once again pulled me in with her eyes and suffering, making me want to root for her and for something good to come out of this. These two actors have a lot asked of them, and they deliver big time.

So, do they go with their heads or their hearts? What will their decisions mean for their futures? For the relationships between brothers? For their families and neighbors? What is the Caretaker’s role in it all? Will you have the strength to endure through to the end and tear this cabin down? I went into this play having no clue what to expect, and I am blown away by it. This is a perfect play for this time of year. I know I want to find a way to see it again. It is that good. Do yourself a favor: grab some friends and get your tickets to fill the seats for this two-week run of shows. There are few theater experiences quite like this one. A big thank you to the cast and crew of this production for their dedication and hard work, as well as to the leadership, staff, and volunteers of the Benson Theatre for taking a risk on bringing this to Omaha and nurturing a love of theater within our community.

The post A Haunting Experience: The Magic of Ghost Brothers of Darkland County appeared first on Benson Theatre.

In a world where storytelling transcends boundaries, where the eerie melodies of legends intertwine with the chilling narrative of the supernatural, Benson Theatre proudly announces its upcoming production: Ghost Brothers of Darkland County by none other than icons Stephen King, John Cougar Mellencamp, and T Bone Burnett. With special permission from Broadway Licensing, Benson Theatre will produce the first run of Ghost Brothers of Darkland County since its 2014 tour before it’s available anywhere else! This means you have the opportunity to see the show right here in Omaha before it’s seen anywhere else. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable journey into the heart of darkness as we bring to life this haunting tale on our stage this October.

A Triumvirate of Creative Genius

Ghost Brothers of Darkland County is the brainchild of three titans in their respective fields. Stephen King, the master of horror, weaves a tale that resonates with spine-tingling suspense and unrelenting tension. John Cougar Mellencamp, the legendary musician, infuses the story with haunting melodies and soulful tunes rooted in Americana that seep into your bones. T Bone Burnett, the acclaimed producer, adds layers of depth with his signature soundscapes, creating an immersive experience that captivates the senses.

Synopsis

Set in the mysterious backwoods of Mississippi, Ghost Brothers of Darkland County follows the chilling saga of two brothers haunted by a tragic past. As they reunite after years of estrangement, they confront not only the ghosts that linger in the shadows but also the demons lurking within themselves. Secrets are unearthed, dark truths come to light, and the line between the living and the dead blurs in this gripping tale of redemption and revenge.

Our Interpretation

At Benson Theatre, we pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of storytelling and embracing the eclectic. With Ghost Brothers of Darkland County, we aim to transport our audience through space and time to the Deep South, where whispers of the supernatural echo through the mist-laden swamps of the soulful strains of folk, Americana, and blues music reverberate in the night. Our interpretation will pay homage to the rich tapestry of Southern Gothic literature while infusing it with a contemporary twist that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

Your Experience

Prepare to be spellbound as you step into the world of Ghost Brothers of Darkland County. Our talented in-house production team, with help from our most-trusted community partners, is dedicated to bringing this mesmerizing tale to life with stunning visuals, Omaha’s best theatrical musicians, powerhouse performances, and the use of Omaha’s only holographic pepperscrim paired with upgraded projection technology that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Stephen King or simply love a good ghost story, this production promises an unforgettable experience that will linger in your mind long after the final bow.

Interested in Auditioning?

​​Benson Theatre believes that theatre belongs to everyone, and we strive for inclusivity and representation of the scope of humanity in our audiences and in our company.  We believe the expanse of humanity available in a performance transcends the context of fixed casting, and we are determined to define space in these stories for the rich variety of humans and experiences that exist in our world today.  We invite all artists to submit for opportunities and roles that ignite their creative spirit.  

We seek to represent all genders, races, ethnicities, ages, and abilities within our company and programming. We recognize that many characters we encounter onstage are on the binary and are written with he/him or she/her pronouns and many characters are written with a systemic coding or expectation of race and ability.

We invite gender non-conforming, gender queer, transgender, and non-binary actors, as well as performers of all races, ethnicities, ages, and abilities to submit for all roles with which they most identify. We will specify when characters have specific gender, race, age, or ability criteria — with the intent of authentically uplifting historically marginalized voices in the arts. Otherwise, we ask all people interested and excited by this show to audition for the roles that ignite their creative spirit.

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns, or if there are any additional accommodations we can provide. If you’re interested in auditioning, please reach out to Jason and Maddie to keep up-to-date!

Don’t Miss a Beat!

As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, join us at Benson Theatre for a journey into the unknown with the Ghost Brothers of Darkland County. With its potent blend of horror, music, and Southern mystique, this production is sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul. Mark your calendar for October 17th-27th, 2024, and prepare to be haunted by the echoes of Darkland County. Tickets will be available soon! To stay up-to-date, follow us on social media and sign up for our weekly newsletter blast on all things BT.

The post Unveiling the Haunting Tale: Benson Theatre Presents Ghost Brothers of Darkland County appeared first on Benson Theatre.

“We can appreciate how long that creative energy has existed in this space, and we are continuing on a legacy that started 100 years ago,” Deputy Director Maddie Radcliff said. “Seeing some of the elements that still exist from when it was originally the Benalto are really special to all of us.”

The post Benson Theatre: New Life for a Century-Old Theater appeared first on Benson Theatre.

What are some of your organization’s most important goals?

First, getting the word out. Th e theater is available for use for almost any event: theater, film, concerts, spoken word performances, comedy, dance, culinary showcases, workshops, fundraisers, or private events. Second, to scale up from a start-up organization into a sustainable model for operations and programming so that the theater will serve the community for generations to come. Third, to develop partnerships with organizations who can bring much-needed programming. We do our best work when we are hosting and holding a safe space for others to come in and use the stage as a platform for their mission. Their mission is our mission.

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Every year as a Non-Profit, a community center and a team passionate about the arts we collectively learn something new.

2023 was about continuing growth and building a strong foundation to lead us into the future. 2024 is all about INTENTION. Programming with intention, serving with intention, and pushing ourselves to reach more community with more offerings.

We are so proud to announce three new programs this morning that take us beyond the stage. These programs revisit our legacy as a cinema house, expose our passion as an artistic sanctuary for the written word, and highlight our awesomeness by collaborating with todays most viral online sensations.

Welcome to our New Year.

BENSON SOCIAL

A call back to a traditional 100 years-old, the Benson Social is a new take on a classic. Curated evenings with our favorite, most evocative social media artists, sensations, and changemakers. Benson Social invites unique and thriving personalities to our stage to share their passion and talent with all of Omaha, bringing the viral stars of our modern age to our stage.

ON WRITING

Every Second Tuesday of the Month join us in the lobby, alongside our partner The Book Nook, and participate in an engaging live reading with a local or nationally recognized writer, playwright, or poet. Peruse the curated offerings from the Book Nook, have a drink, and stay for the Q and A.

BENALTO FILM SERIES

The Benalto Film Series brings the classics back to life with screenings of films from the Criterion Collection, curated by local filmmakers, movie buffs and historians. After the screening they will lead us through conversation and audience talk backs on the films that made Hollywood blossom.

How To Get Involved?

As we build our programming, we’re always looking for new partners, ideas, collaborations, and suggestions! If you have an idea for one of the series mentioned above, would like to become a sponsor, or have another idea to add to BT’s growing calendar, reach out to our Deputy Director, Maddie, at maddie@bensontheatre.org, or our Program Director, Jason, at jason@bensontheatre.org. We can’t wait to chat!

The post BT Announces New Programming for 2024! appeared first on Benson Theatre.

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Step into the magical world of collaborative theater this holiday season as Benson Theatre and Brigit Saint Brigit join forces to present a heartwarming,

unique, locally-written tale of how families of all shapes and sizes come together during the end of the year. This singular collaboration brings together

the artistic prowess of two esteemed nonprofit theaters, promising a performance that will resonate with the spirit of giving and community.

Dates: December 7th-17th, Thursday-Sunday

Times: Thursdays-Saturday 7:30 PM, Sundays 2 PM

Location: Benson Theatre, 6054 Maple Street, Omaha, NE 68104

Tickets: $35 general admission, $30 students/65+/military

The Unveiling of Scrooge and Marley

In a theatrical twist that celebrates the creative drive of Omaha’s performing arts scene, we are thrilled to announce the roles of Scrooge and Marley will be brought to life by none other than Maddie Radcliff, Benson Theatre’s own Deputy Director, and Murphy Scott Wulfgar, Executive Director of Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre in the upcoming show Holiday Lights: Winter’s Wonderful Gifts. While both Maddie and Murphy have been staples of Omaha’s theatre scene for decades, Holiday Lights is their first experience collaborating and acting in a show side by side. Brace yourselves for a performance that transcends traditional boundaries, as these two theatre-makers take center stage in an unforgettable portrayal of Dickens’ iconic characters unlike you’ve ever seen them, wrapped in the magic of a variety of holidays that fall between Thanksgiving and New Years. The charming treat to arise from this third collaboration between BSB and BT is the instant bond on and off stage these two performers and producers have found.

“Maddie is an outstanding actor. What’s even better—she is the perfect scene partner: intuitive and mindful of those around her, patiently giving, endlessly kind, and open,” says Murphy. “Acting requires a vulnerability to share yourself while simultaneously nurturing a willingness to allow new ideas to find their way in. Maddie does this (seemingly) effortlessly. To watch her balance those concepts in real time is nothing short of remarkable. Dedication to any idea without pit falling into self-seriousness is rare. To work in an environment that prizes this ideal with someone like Maddie—even rarer.”

The respect, joy, and festivity in this collaboration is absolutely a two-way street. While Benson Theatre provides Brigit Saint Brigit with the perfect space to showcase these stories, Brigit Saint Brigit has provided a play that is mission-centered, locally-made, and honors the diversity present in Benson and the surrounding communities. This partnership has become a symbiotic relationship both Murphy and Maddie relish.

“Murphy is an extraordinary leader and collaborator on stage and behind the scenes,” says Maddie. “We work incredibly well together on the production side of the show, but also share a very rare, intuitive bond as actors. Murphy is a generous, inspiring, effortlessly talented scene partner who brings out the best in anyone he shares creative space with – with me being no exception. Stepping back onto a stage can be scary, but his trust and trustworthiness, his willingness to connect on a deeper level, and his egoless approach to character development has made this journey nothing short of affirming and joyous. I foresee many collaborations on the horizon.”

Tapping into the multidisciplinary talent of Maddie, Murphy, and the entire cast and crew of Holiday Lights has brought new layers of complexity and fun to the roles you know well. Written and directed by Murphy, this vignette-style show combines music, classic characters, audience favorites (Krampus is back!), and brand-new creations that illuminate the similarities (and differences) found between the many customs and celebrations that bind our families and communities together each winter.

Why Attend?

1. A Tale of Unity:

Holiday Lights is an authentic symbol of collaboration, community, and the power of storytelling. By focusing not only on Christmas but on the many holidays and traditions that surround the end of the year, we invite every community to enjoy a collection of stories that reflects their own lived experiences.

2. Executive & Deputy Directors as Scrooge & Marley:

Murphy Wulfgar and Maddie Radcliff bring their passion for theater and their unique perspectives to the roles of Marley and Scrooge. Experience a fresh interpretation of this classic under the guidance of these talented leaders.

3. A Stellar Cast

Featuring some of Omaha’s finest, this cast of Holiday Lights is made complete with Adam Bassing, Dulce Mueller, Eric Griffith, Jack Zerbe, JoAnn Goodhew, and Katt Walsh who have contributed not only their acting talents, but their impeccable artist eye to every detail of the show.

4. Supporting the Arts:

By attending this collaborative production, you’re not only treating yourself and your family to a night of exceptional theater, but also supporting the mission of both Brigit Saint Brigit and Benson Theatre. Your presence contributes to the growth and sustainability of nonprofit arts organizations in our community.

How to Experience this Extravaganza

Reserve your seat for this one-of-a-kind performance by visiting Benson Theatre’s Website or Brigit Saint Brigit’s Website. Be part of the magic as Murphy, Maddie, and the entire phenomenal ensemble of talented actors bring Holiday Lights: Winter’s Wonderful Gifts to life in a way that only a collaborative effort of this magnitude can achieve.

“The fact that all of this also so accurately describes the collaboration style at Benson Theatre should come as no surprise,” says Murphy. “Finding yourself in a group of accomplished artists whose sole purpose is to center other artists, and not their own ego or agenda, is something I wish for every artist who has something to share. Maddie embodies this—on and off the stage.”

“The holidays are filled with every emotion under the sun,” says Maddie, “and this show and this team of artists, producers, and creators, really captures the inner-emotional complexity of that human experience. Murphy has found a beautiful way to celebrate the joy, honor the sadness, and weave pathways to connect with every audience member in a way that makes them feel represented.”

As the holiday season approaches, let the spirit of togetherness, tradition, and the family you choose permeate your heart. Join Brigit Saint Brigit and Benson Theatre in celebrating the magic of theater, collaboration, and community with Holiday Lights: Winter’s Wonderful Gifts. Secure your tickets, invite your loved ones, and prepare for a theatrical experience unlike any other.

See you at the show, where the spirit of family (and the unforgiving judgment of Krampus!) meet the magic of the stage!

Connect with Us!

Stay updated on behind-the-scenes moments, rehearsal sneak peeks, and more by following Benson Theatre and Brigit Saint Brigit on Facebook and Instagram. Join the conversation around Holiday Lights using #HolidayLights2023 and share your excitement and experience with fellow theater enthusiasts!

Have an idea for next year’s Holiday Lights to showcase your own personal holiday traditions? Email Maddie and Murphy to get involved in the creative process and be a part of next year’s show!

The post A Theatrical Marvel Returns with an Enchanting Twist: Benson Theatre and Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre Present “Holiday Lights: Winter’s Wonderful Gifts” appeared first on Benson Theatre.

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“I love actually being with people—having conversations, and working with artists in nontraditional settings, poking at their creativity, and having them see it from different perspectives and angles. I love the installation process. That is what keeps me fueled. The other thing that keeps me going is my team.” ~ Alex Jochim

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