photo by Marshall Meadows

There’s trouble in River City when a fast-talking salesman gets his heart stolen by the town librarian. Meredith Willson’s six-time Tony Award-winning musical comedy “The Music Man” follows Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band that he vows to organize. This, despite the fact that he doesn't know a trombone from a treble clef.

“The Music Man” is a family-friendly story to be shared with every generation, and features songs such as “Seventy-Six Trombones,” “Ya Got Trouble,” “ 'Till There Was You,” “Pick-a-Little” and “Gary, Indiana.”

This new production will be helmed by veteran director Matt Lenz. Emmy Award winner, Tony Award nominee and critically acclaimed choreographer Joshua Bergasse will create all new dances for the citizens of River City.

Meredith Willson’s iconic humor, wordplay and optimism will shine in this inventive reimagination of a beloved classic. Scenic design is by Ann Beyersdorfer, video design is by Lisa Renkel, and lighting design is by Tony Award winner Ken Billington. The production will showcase the Broadway costumes designed by Tony Award winner Santo Loquasto.

All this fun and excitement of a Broadway musical will take place at Penn State’s Eisenhower Auditorium at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

Tickets are $89 (orchestra and grand tier) and $74 (balcony) for an adult; $53 and $48 for a University Park student; and $72 and $57 for a person 18 and younger. Purchase your tickets online. Avoid the $4 fee by purchasing over the phone at 814-863-0255 or in person, weekdays 10 a.m.–4 p.m., at Eisenhower Auditorium. The Center for the Performing Arts and the Arts Ticket Center are parts of the Penn State College of Arts and Architecture.