Drumroll please…The Mizel Arts and Culture Center is thrilled to announce the 2026 season of the Wolf Theatre Academy (WTA), one of Colorado’s premier youth theatre training programs. Each year, WTA provides students with the opportunity to learn from professional artists, build performance skills, and experience the magic of bringing fully staged productions to life. This year promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with a lineup that spans classic comedy, contemporary musical theatre, fantasy adventures, and quirky Broadway fun.

Mainstage Productions Take Center Stage

This summer’s Mainstage program offers students in grades 7 (rising) through 12 the chance to participate in two fully realized productions, each with its own flavor and opportunity for growth.

Once Upon a Mattress

A classic and beloved musical comedy, Once Upon a Mattress puts a hilarious twist on the Princess and the Pea fairy tale. Filled with big characters, witty writing, and showstopping ensemble moments, this production gives young performers the chance to explore comedic timing, vocal storytelling, and the joy of traditional musical theatre. 

Beetlejuice Jr.

For the second Mainstage production, students will step into the strange, unusual, and wildly entertaining world of Beetlejuice Jr. Featuring high-energy musical numbers and beloved characters from the iconic film and Broadway adaptation, the show offers a bold creative playground for performers who love big choices, theatricality, and memorable comedic moments. 

With two distinctly different styles, Mainstage students will challenge themselves artistically while enjoying the camaraderie, discipline, and excitement that come with producing a full-scale musical. 

Pluss Camp Offers Big Imagination for Grades 4-7

Wolf Theatre Academy’s Pluss Camp, designed for students entering grades 4 (rising) through 7, welcomes younger performers to the stage in three dynamic productions that encourage creativity, teamwork, and skill building. 

Nobody to Murder

A lighthearted and comedic mystery, Nobody to Murder introduces students to character work, ensemble storytelling, and clever comedic writing in a fun and fast-paced play perfect for young actors dipping their toes into theatre.

Disney’s Alice in Wonderland

This timeless musical offers performers the chance to journey through a whimsical world filled with unforgettable characters. With bold costumes, imaginative staging, and iconic songs, Alice in Wonderland gives young actors the space to explore larger-than-life performance and creative expression.

Shrek Jr.

Rounding out the Pluss Camp lineup, Shrek Jr. invites students to dive into one of modern musical theatre’s most beloved stories. With heart, humor, and a message of acceptance, this production provides meaningful character development opportunities alongside fun ensemble numbers and memorable roles for performers of all experience levels.

Registration Dates

Enrollment for the 2026 Wolf Theatre Academy opens on a staggered schedule to ensure fair access for participants:

• JPerks Members: January 12, 2026
• Past Participants: January 14, 2026
• New Participants: January 26, 2026

With limited space and a strong track record of filling quickly, families are encouraged to register early to secure their spot.

Training the Next Generation of Theatre Artists

Wolf Theatre Academy has built a legacy of nurturing young performers while maintaining the standards and professionalism of real-world theatre. Students learn from working artists, collaborate with peers, and gain hands-on experience that develops confidence, artistry, communication, and lasting friendships.

Whether on the Mainstage or through Pluss Camp, 2026 promises another unforgettable summer of storytelling, imagination, and the transformative power of the performing arts.

Curtains rise soon, and the Wolf Theatre Academy cannot wait to welcome the next generation of performers to the spotlight.