Albuquerque Little Theatre Embraces a New Chapter While Honoring Its Legacy

The cast of "Jesus Christ Superstar" at Albuquerque Little Theatre.

For nearly a century, Albuquerque Little Theatre has been a cornerstone of New Mexico's performing arts community. Generations of actors have taken their first bows beneath its lights, volunteers have devoted countless hours behind the scenes, and audiences have gathered to experience stories that entertain, challenge, and inspire. As the organization approaches its 97th season, a new leadership team is preparing to write the next chapter of that remarkable history.

Leading that effort is newly appointed Artistic Director Brandon Thomsen, who arrives with a deep appreciation for the theatre's legacy and an equally strong commitment to its future. While new leadership often brings change, Thomsen sees this transition not as a departure from the past, but as an opportunity to build upon nearly a century of community storytelling.

"It's really exciting," Thomsen said. "I'm honored to be carrying that torch."

For him, stepping into one of Albuquerque's oldest theatrical institutions comes with both excitement and responsibility. Every production that has graced the stage over the past 96 seasons has helped shape the theatre's identity, and Thomsen believes that honoring those traditions is just as important as embracing new ideas. "We want to honor where we came from while knowing that we're ready to move forward and welcome new people."

That balance between tradition and innovation has become the foundation of the theatre's new direction. Joining Thomsen is a new Executive Director, creating an opportunity for Albuquerque Little Theatre to reexamine not only its artistic programming but also its relationship with the community it has served for generations. Rather than rushing to make sweeping changes, Thomsen believes the first step is something much simpler: listening. "It's a lot of relationship building," he explained. "It's reaching out to the community and inviting people in."

That invitation extends well beyond seasoned performers. Whether someone has spent decades on stage or has always dreamed of auditioning for their very first production, Thomsen wants Albuquerque Little Theatre to be a place where everyone feels welcome. "We're in the business of telling stories," he said. "So we need to know the stories of our community."

That philosophy reflects a growing movement within regional theatre—one that values collaboration, representation, and creating spaces where audiences see their own experiences reflected on stage. Those ideas are woven throughout Albuquerque Little Theatre's upcoming season, one of the most ambitious in recent years.

The season opens with Mean Girls, the hit musical based on the beloved 2004 film, before shifting to the timeless comedy Arsenic and Old Lace. Holiday traditions return with A Christmas Carol, while musical theatre fans can look forward to Evita, Andrew Lloyd Webber's celebrated portrait of Eva Perón.

For Halloween weekend, the theatre embraces cult-classic energy with The Rocky Horror Show, followed by family-friendly adventures in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, heartfelt drama in Steel Magnolias, and the beloved Broadway classic Hello, Dolly!

While each production offers a distinctly different theatrical experience, Thomsen intentionally selected them to explore a common thread.

Identity.

"It was really important to me that we know why we choose the shows we choose—and why now," he explained.

As Albuquerque Little Theatre enters a new era, Thomsen sees the organization embarking on its own journey of self-discovery, much like the characters audiences will encounter throughout the season. "I think ALT is going on this journey of identity," he said. "Who are we? What can we offer this community that they can't get anywhere else?"

It's a thoughtful approach that transforms an entertaining season into something more meaningful, inviting audiences to reflect on their own identities while watching the stories unfold.

For longtime patrons, however, change can sometimes bring uncertainty. Thomsen understands that concern and is quick to reassure audiences, volunteers, and supporters that the values which have sustained Albuquerque Little Theatre for nearly a century remain firmly in place. "We want to assure them that they matter to us," he said.

Volunteers, many of whom have dedicated years to the organization, remain central to its success. So do loyal patrons whose continued support has allowed the theatre to flourish through changing times. Whether someone contributes their talents backstage, performs under the lights, or purchases a ticket for opening night, Thomsen believes every investment deserves to be honored. "If ALT's name is associated with it, they can trust us," he said.

That trust extends beyond artistic excellence.

As a volunteer, he wants people to know their time and talents will be respected. As an audience member, he wants every ticket holder to leave feeling their evening was worthwhile—both artistically and emotionally. "We're going to deliver something that honors the story and honors your experience."

Those words capture the spirit of Albuquerque Little Theatre's next chapter. Rather than reinventing itself, the organization is strengthening the foundation that has sustained it for generations while opening its doors to new voices, fresh perspectives, and audiences who may be discovering live theatre for the very first time.

As Albuquerque Little Theatre prepares to celebrate its 97th season, it does so with one eye on its remarkable history and the other firmly focused on the future. Under Thomsen's leadership, the organization continues to embrace the timeless power of storytelling while ensuring that every person who walks through its doors—whether performer, volunteer, or audience member—feels like part of the production.

Because after nearly a century, Albuquerque Little Theatre understands that the greatest stories are not simply the ones performed on stage. They are also the stories created within the community that gathers there, season after season, generation after generation.

To learn more about Albuquerque Little Theatre's upcoming season, auditions, volunteer opportunities, and performances, visit albuquerquelittletheater.org or follow the theatre on social media.