Broadway-Bound Dance Musical to Anchor Center Stage's 2026-27 Season

New York's underground ballroom and voguing scene takes the stage in Baltimore before heading to Broadway.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of shimmering sequins and shattered glass reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamour and energy of a new Broadway-bound dance musical.The vibrant, high-energy world of underground ballroom culture in New York City will take center stage in a new musical headed for Broadway.Baltimore Today

A new musical called 'Xtravaganza,' set in New York's underground ballroom and voguing scene, will debut next season at Baltimore Center Stage before moving to Broadway. The production is backed by three Hollywood heavyweights and their films are also returning to Baltimore.

Why it matters

Center Stage's decision to host the world premiere of 'Xtravaganza' before its Broadway run highlights Baltimore's growing reputation as an incubator for new theatrical works. The city's vibrant arts scene and diverse community make it an ideal testing ground for productions exploring LGBTQ+ themes and subcultures.

The details

The new musical 'Xtravaganza' will open Center Stage's 2026-27 season, giving Baltimore audiences the first look at this production before it heads to the bright lights of Broadway. The show is inspired by the underground ballroom culture of New York City, where LGBTQ+ people of color have created their own vibrant community and artistic expression through competitive voguing and dance.

  • The musical 'Xtravaganza' will debut at Baltimore Center Stage in the 2026-27 season.
  • The production is slated to move to Broadway following its Baltimore premiere.

The players

Baltimore Center Stage

A renowned regional theater in Baltimore, Maryland that serves as an incubator for new theatrical works.

Xtravaganza

A new Broadway-bound musical set in New York's underground ballroom and voguing scene.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Baltimore's arts scene continues to surprise and delight, and we're thrilled to give this important new musical its world premiere before it heads to Broadway.”

— Michael Ross, Managing Director of Baltimore Center Stage

What’s next

Following the Baltimore premiere, 'Xtravaganza' will transfer to Broadway for its full commercial run.

The takeaway

Center Stage's decision to host the world premiere of 'Xtravaganza' solidifies Baltimore's reputation as an arts incubator, showcasing the city's ability to nurture new theatrical works that explore diverse LGBTQ+ stories and perspectives before they hit the national stage.