Orlando Family Stage has announced a change to its upcoming Centennial Season lineup, adding a stage adaptation of The Hobbit to its 2026-2027 season in place of a previously planned world premiere musical.
The theater said the change comes as development continues on its original musical, which has been rescheduled for a Fall 2027 world premiere. The production is also expected to launch a national tour following its debut, with additional details to be announced at a later date.
Based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic novel, The Hobbit follows Bilbo Baggins, a home-loving hobbit who reluctantly joins the wizard Gandalf and a company of dwarves on a quest that takes him far beyond the comforts of home. Along the way, Bilbo encounters dangerous creatures, faces unexpected challenges, and discovers strengths he never knew he had.
Artistic Director Jeff Revels said bringing Greg Banks’ adaptation to Orlando has been a longtime goal.
“I have wanted to produce this play for years,” Revels said in a statement. “It’s imaginative, theatrical, and deeply human. It captures everything we believe theatre for young audiences can be, inviting children and adults alike to discover that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the choice to keep moving forward with empathy, curiosity, and hope.”
According to Orlando Family Stage, the production aligns with the organization’s mission of using live theater to encourage bravery and empathy in young audiences. Throughout Bilbo’s journey, themes of courage, compassion, and personal growth take center stage as he learns to support those around him while stepping outside of his comfort zone.
The stage adaptation was written by Greg Banks and was originally commissioned and produced by Children’s Theatre Company. Designed for a small ensemble cast, the production uses inventive staging and storytelling techniques to bring Tolkien’s fantasy world to life.
Field trip performances are scheduled for March 1-26, 2027, while public performances will run from March 6-28, 2027.
Memberships for Orlando Family Stage’s Centennial Season are available now, offering access to productions throughout the year while supporting the nonprofit theater’s educational and community programs.
Located in Loch Haven Park, Orlando Family Stage is one of the nation’s largest theaters dedicated to young audiences. In addition to producing professional performances, the organization offers arts education programs, youth theater opportunities, and community initiatives while developing new theatrical works that are staged across the country.
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