December 2025 NYC Theater Openings
Table of Contents
Below is a calendar of New York theater openings* in December. There are two new shows on Broadway, several Off-broadway, and a handful more further afield.
(Dates are subject to change.)
December 2
* Broadway: Appropriate – Starring Sarah Paulson. At the Belasco theater.
* Off-Broadway: The Underlying Group – At the Cherry Lane Theatre.
December 5
* Broadway: Annie Christie – Starring Michelle Williams. At the Circle in the Square Theatre.
December 8
* Off-Broadway: A Raisin in the Sun – At the Signature Theatre.
December 10
* Off-Broadway: Stereophonic – At the Helen Hayes Theater.
December 12
* Off-Broadway: The Great Gatsby – At the American Repertory Theater.
December 15
* Off-Broadway: Prayer for the French Republic – At the New York Theatre Workshop.
Note: This is not a complete list. For a more complete listing, please check the New York Theater website.
## December 2025 NYC Theater Openings
But much of the month of December is taken up with holiday fare (which I’ve previewed in a separate post): Most of those shows (but not all) are annual traditions, some going back decades; most (but not all) are for the whole family.
The calendar below is organized chronologically by opening date*, or first performance, but we must consider the dates subject to change, thanks to the continuing vagaries of COVID-19, and the normal challenges and serendipity of live theater.Each title below is linked to a relevant website.
Color key: Broadway: Red 🟥. Off Broadway: Blue 🟦. Off Off Broadway: green 🟩.
Digital or Hybrid Theater: Yellow 🟨 Theater festival: Orange 🟧. Immersive/site-specific: Silver ⬜️ . Concert/cabaret 🎶 Puppetry: Brown 🟫 opera: Purple🟪 Outdoors:🌲Free (or “choose what you pay”) 🆓
## December 2
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FXFest 2024: A Deep Dive into Playwrights Horizons’ Festival of New Works
Playwrights Horizons’ FXFest 2024 is currently underway, offering audiences a first look at exciting new plays in development. This year’s festival showcases a diverse range of voices and stories, providing a unique prospect to engage with the future of American theater. FXFest isn’t about polished productions; it’s about witnessing the raw, evolving energy of plays still being shaped.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the featured works:
“Main Energy Character 2” – This play promises a contemporary exploration of identity and connection. Details are still emerging, but the title itself suggests a focus on navigating the complexities of modern relationships and self-perception.
“little Brother” – Another intriguing offering, “Little Brother” hints at themes of family dynamics and perhaps the weight of legacy. The festival format allows for a especially intimate experiance with works like this, fostering a direct connection between the audience and the unfolding narrative.
What to Expect at FXFest:
FXFest is designed to be a collaborative experience. Audiences aren’t simply passive viewers; they are invited to be active participants in the development process. Expect staged readings, workshops, and opportunities to provide feedback to the playwrights and creative teams.
This festival is a vital platform for nurturing new talent and pushing the boundaries of theatrical storytelling. It’s a chance to see theater in its most formative stages and to contribute to the creation of the plays that will shape the future of the art form.
You can find more information and ticketing details on the Playwrights Horizons website.
FXFEST 2024: A Deep Dive into Identity, Family, and Rebellion
FXFEST 2024, presented by Playwrights Horizons, is a digital theatre festival offering a compelling lineup of new plays exploring complex themes.this year’s selections delve into the intricacies of identity, the weight of familial expectations, and the raw energy of youthful rebellion. Here’s a closer look at two standout productions: I, Mother and whitegirlsgang.
I, mother – A haunting exploration of Generational Trauma
This play promises a chilling and intimate look at the ripple effects of trauma across generations. While details remain sparse, the title itself suggests a focus on the often-unseen burdens carried by mothers and the secrets that shape family dynamics. Expect a performance that is highly likely to be emotionally resonant and thought-provoking, prompting audiences to consider the legacies we inherit and the cycles we strive to break.
whitegirlsgang – Rebellion and the Search for belonging
whitegirlsgang appears to be a more visceral and immediate work, focusing on the experiences of young women navigating friendship, identity, and societal pressures. The title hints at a story of defiance and the formation of bonds as a means of survival and self-discovery. This production is likely to be a raw and honest portrayal of youth culture, exploring themes of belonging, rebellion, and the search for authenticity.
FXFEST 2024 offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge theatrical voices and experience stories that challenge and inspire.
## “Protest Song” at La MaMa: A Raw and Moving Portrait of Addiction and Resilience
🟩protest Song (La MaMa)
Tim Price’s one-man play tells the story of a witty, charismatic man who is also an addict living on the streets of London. Through a series of fragmented memories and direct addresses to the audience, the play unveils a life marked by trauma, loss, and the relentless struggle for survival.
The performance is a tour-de-force, demanding both vulnerability and strength from its sole performer. It’s a raw and unflinching look at the realities of addiction, avoiding sensationalism and rather focusing on the human cost.”Protest Song” doesn’t offer easy answers or resolutions, but rather presents a complex portrait of a man caught in a cycle, desperately seeking connection and meaning.
The play’s power lies in its honesty and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It’s a challenging but ultimately rewarding theatrical experience,and a testament to the enduring spirit of La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club.## December 8
🟩The slide is the Negative (Chain Theater)
When a photographer betrays her closest friend by displaying an intimate,revealing photograph in a prestigious Chelsea gallery,the fallout spirals into a deadly web of infidelity and violence. Written by Jake Shore and starring Emmy winner Cady McClain
Through December 21
December 8
🟥Marjorie Prime (Second Stage’s Hayes Theater)
Written by Jordan Harrison, and directed by Anne Kauffman, with a stellar cast – Danny Burstein, Christopher Lowell, Cynthia Nixon, June Squibb – this 2015 play, about an elderly woman in the near future whose grown children give her a robot caregiver, is even more relevant with the ascendance of AI, but it’s also insightful about family dynamics. My review of it Off-Broadway in 2015.
🟩Oklahoma Samovar
Alice Eve Cohen’s play depicts five generations of a family, beginning with two Latvian teenagers who flee the Russian Army in 1887, and become the only Jews in the Oklahoma Land Run. A century later, twenty-year-old Emily tries to decipher her late mother’s mysterious request to have her ashes spread on a stranger’s farm, in a place she has never heard of
December 5 – 21
🟧7th Annual International Human Rights Art Movement (The Tank)
A benefit performance featuring artists, activists, and performers, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for human rights causes. December 8 at 7 PM.
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All Out: A Hilarious Look at Broadway Ambition
🟥All Out: comedy about Ambition
What is “All Out”?
“All Out” is a new musical comedy currently playing off-Broadway. It dives headfirst into the chaotic and frequently enough hilarious world of aspiring Broadway performers. The show doesn’t shy away from the cutthroat competition, the relentless auditions, and the unwavering dreams that fuel those who chase a life on stage. It’s a fresh, energetic production that resonates with anyone who’s ever pursued a challenging goal.
The Story: A Glimpse Behind the Curtain
The musical centers around a group of ambitious performers all vying for their big break. We follow their journeys as they navigate the ups and downs of the audition process, the complexities of their relationships, and the constant pressure to succeed. “All Out” cleverly blends relatable characters with witty dialog and catchy musical numbers. It’s not just about the glamour; it’s about the grit, the sacrifices, and the unwavering belief in oneself.
Key Characters to Watch
- Jake: A talented but insecure dancer struggling to find his place.
- Olivia: A powerhouse vocalist with a fierce determination to be a star.
- Ethan: A charismatic actor who seems to have it all, but hides a secret vulnerability.
Why See “All out”?
“All Out” offers a unique and entertaining viewpoint on the Broadway world. It’s a show that celebrates the passion and dedication of performers while also acknowledging the realities of the industry. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Relatable Themes: The show explores worldwide themes of ambition,friendship,and self-discovery.
- Original Music: The score is filled with upbeat and memorable songs that will have you tapping your feet.
- Energetic Performances: The cast delivers dynamic and engaging performances that bring the characters to life.
- A Fresh perspective: It provides an honest and humorous look at the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a dream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is “All out” playing?
Worth a look