Earlier this month, Sag Harbor’s Bay Street Theater announced their summer 2026 line-up that is well worthy of the beloved institution’s 35th anniversary. Not only will there be two world premieres in store, but a duo of musicals making for an ambitiously entertaining season ahead.
“As an artist, I am always thinking about how a story lives in a space,” artistic sirector Scott Schwartz said in a statement to the press. “For the first time, our summer lineup includes two world premieres alongside two back-to-back musicals, an exciting and ambitious combination that feels perfectly fitting as we celebrate our 35th year.”
The 299-seat nonprofit, professional regional theater and cultural center has staked its reputation on producing personal, refreshing takes on beloved classics as well as showcasing uniquely crafted new works from contemporary artists 52 weeks of the year, as well as musical acts, comedy shows, film screenings, panel discussions and talks, as well as educational programs designed for both children and adults.
The idea was born of a chat at the Corner Bar (R.I.P.) among Welsh actress Sybil Christopher, Emma Walton Hamilton (daughter of Julie Andrews) and her husband, Stephen Hamilton, when the three dreamt up the notion of a brick-and-mortar spot in Sag Harbor honoring its many creative inhabitants. Thirty-five years later and they’re still going strong.
On the docket (and likely in high ticket demand) for the 2026 season are the following productions:
- Mister Haalston — another world-premiere takes the stage here with this glammy tale of ’70s and ’80s fashion design icon Roy Halston Frowick (aka, Halston). This one-act and is drawn from the riveting tome by Raffeaele Pacitti, presented by Tony Award-winning producer Bruce Robert Harris and directed by Michael Wilson. Previews begin June 2; opening night June 6; production runs through June 21.
- Cagney — From the fashion runways to Hollywood glitter, this musical honoring the life of silver screen star James Cagney is inspired by the book by Peter Colley on Cagney’s vaudeville roots, and features music and lyrics by Robert Creighton and Christopher McGovern. Previews begin June 30; opening night July 3; production runs through July 26.
- Dear Evan Hansen — Bay Street is proud to bring this six-time Tony winning story of human connection to their stage. Choreographed by Marcos Santana, previews begin Aug. 4; opening night Aug. 8; production runs through Aug. 29.
- Bonkers in the Boroughs — Sag Harbor resident (for now; her lovely turreted home is currently listed for just under $6 million) and co-host of The View Joy Behar wrote and stars in this series of five fall-down-laughing short plays about the “Only in New York, kids” shake your head absurdities of life in New York City. This limited-run production closes the season on a high note Sept. 1 – 6.
With something for everyone in the mix, there’s a lot of buzz in this anniversary year of Sag Harbor’s beloved arts institution. “This anniversary season reflects the artists, audiences, and community who have shaped Bay Street Theater for 35 years,” says executive director Tracy Mitchell. “It celebrates our past, embraces the present, and looks ahead with confidence. We are excited to welcome audiences back for a summer of stories that feel immediate, meaningful, and shared.”
Multiple ticket options are available, including subscriptions, which include three shows, along with exclusive benefits and discounts. Individual tickets and subscriptions are available now by clicking here, calling 631‑725‑9500 or hitting up the box office Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5:00 p.m., as well as 30 minutes before each evening’s performance.
