Annie

FPAC opens its 2025-26 Season with&nbsp;Annie&nbsp;October 17-26 at THE BLACK BOX! Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray,&nbsp;Annie&nbsp;has become a worldwide phenomenon and was the winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The beloved book and score by Tony Award winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, features some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including “Tomorrow.” Directed by Raye Lynn Mercer with Music Direction by Hallie Wetzell. Featuring choreography by Broadway’s Clay Rice-Thomson (Moulin Rouge, KING KONG, Newsies, Matilda)!&nbsp; With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations… and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

THE BLACK BOX

The Gala

Delight in a vibrant fundraising extravaganza of cocktails, dinner, live and online auctions, interactive raffles, and performances by Broadway, NYC, and FPAC artists! Gala proceeds support FPAC programming and THE BLACK BOX while encouraging the development of emerging artists. The Gala helps FPAC bring world-class talent to perform in downtown Franklin, amplifying the cultural fabric of MetroWest Boston.

Peter and the Star Catcher

FPAC presents the Tony-winning play&nbsp;Peter and the Starcatcher&nbsp;November 21-23 at THE BLACK BOX directed by Ali Funkhouser! The play upends the century-old story of how a miserable orphan comes to be The Boy Who Would Not Grow Up (a.k.a. Peter Pan). From marauding pirates and jungle tyrants to unwilling comrades and unlikely heroes,&nbsp;Peter and the Starcatcher&nbsp;playfully explores the depths of greed and despair… and the bonds of friendship, duty and love. A young orphan and his mates are shipped off from Victorian England to a distant island ruled by the evil King Zarboff. They know nothing of the mysterious trunk in the captain’s cabin, which contains a precious, otherworldly cargo. At sea, the boys are discovered by a precocious young girl named Molly, a Starcatcher-in-training who realizes that the trunk’s precious cargo is starstuff, a celestial substance so powerful that it must never fall into the wrong hands. When the ship is taken over by pirates – led by the fearsome Black Stache, a villain determined to claim the trunk and its treasure for his own – the journey quickly becomes a thrilling adventure. Featuring a dozen actors portraying more than 100 unforgettable characters,&nbsp;Peter and the Starcatcher&nbsp;uses ingenious stagecraft and the limitless possibilities of imagination to bring the story to life!

The Nutcracker

Experience all the festive magic and colorful splendor of&nbsp;The Nutcracker&nbsp;on December 6 and 7 as FPAC Holiday Productions stages its cherished annual production of the holiday classic with live orchestra, special guest artists, and more than 100 area dancers! Staged at the Franklin High School Auditorium,&nbsp;The Nutcracker&nbsp;remains a highly anticipated and treasured part of the FPAC season – a popular holiday tradition for more than 25 years. The world-famous ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, delights the imaginations of audiences young and old with a professional production at a reasonable price. Fall under Drosselmeyer’s dreamy spell and join Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on a journey full of surprises and wonder!

Franklin High School

Humbug!

The holiday magic will continue on December 20 and 21 with&nbsp;Humbug! A Christmas Carol Musical with a twist. Starring its book writer Nick Paone as Scrooge, with musical hits of every genre, and live accompaniment by a 10-piece band of professional musicians,&nbsp;Humbug!&nbsp;transports audiences from Dickensian England to contemporary America as the novel’s iconic characters and storyline are cleverly reimagined with modern setting and dialogue. FPAC Holiday Productions are presented at the Franklin High School Auditorium.

Steel Magnolias

FPAC presents&nbsp;Steel Magnolias&nbsp;directed by Robbie Rescigno January 23-25 at THE BLACK BOX! Before the iconic 1989 film broke box office records nationwide, Louisiana salon owner Truvy first set up shop on the stage. The colorful cast of regulars and employees that frequent her establishment include a mother-daughter duo planning a wedding, a woman who’s “been in a bad mood for 40 years,” and a mysterious newcomer. Through laughter, tears, and a thick fog of hairspray, these women face trials and triumphs armed with their greatest strength: each other. Content Advisory: Steel Magnolias deals with themes of death, grief, and loss and contains some mature humor and themes.

Into the Woods

FPAC presents James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s timeless, yet relevant,&nbsp;Into the Woods&nbsp;March 13-22 at THE BLACK BOX! Directed by FPAC Artistic Director Raye Lynn Mercer. The story follows a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results.&nbsp; Content Advisory: Into the Woods contains some violence, death, and darker themes that may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly young children. The musical adaptation of the classic fairy tales includes a “darker” and less “happy ending” focused story than traditional fairy tales.&nbsp; ﻿Matinee performances will feature an “Act 1 Only” option for kids with activities/supervision provided next door at the Franklin School for the Performing Arts during Act 2.

Culinary Cabaret

Indulge in a delicious celebration of local culinary talent showcasing fine wines, craft beer, delectable spirits, flavorful dishes, and mouth-watering desserts! Proceeds of Culinary Cabaret directly support&nbsp;Electric Youth, a teenage performance group backed by The Boston Show Band, delivering high-energy entertainment for all: contemporary pop, classic rock, and country hits! Join us at THE BLACK BOX when the culinary and performing arts unite for an inspired evening of fabulous libations, and entertainment! Your all-inclusive ticket includes fabulous food, delicious wine, and craft beer tastings with great entertainment!

Once

FPAC presents the Broadway musical&nbsp;Once&nbsp;June 5-7 at THE BLACK BOX! This emotionally captivating musical is the only show to have music that won an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, an Olivier Award and a Tony Award. On the streets of Dublin, an Irish musician and a Czech immigrant are drawn together by their shared love of music. Over the course of one fateful week, an unexpected friendship and collaboration quickly evolves into a powerful but complicated love story, underscored by emotionally charged music. Featuring all of the magical songs from the critically acclaimed film, including the Oscar-winning “Falling Slowly,” this achingly beautiful, joyously uplifting show strikes an unforgettable chord in audiences and speaks to the power of music to connect us all. Directed by Raye Lynn Mercer.&nbsp; Content Advisory: Once contains some adult language and themes.

FPAC Golf Tournament

REGISTER ONLINE BY JUNE 1ST! Take a day off work for a charitable cause, and test your skills in 18 holes of golf at the New England Country Club! Compete with friends, family, and co-workers for on-course hole contests (50/50 Hole, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive) and raffle prizes! Golf proceeds support FPAC programming and THE BLACK BOX while encouraging the development of emerging artists. FPAC’s fundraising events help bring world-class talent to perform in downtown Franklin, amplifying the cultural fabric of MetroWest Boston.

New England Country Club

Little Women

FPAC presents the musical adaptation of&nbsp;Little Women&nbsp;June 6-8 at THE BLACK BOX! Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life,&nbsp;Little Women&nbsp;follows the adventures of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, but the publishers are not interested – her friend, Professor Bhaer, tells her that she has to do better and write more from herself. Begrudgingly taking this advice, Jo weaves the story of herself and her sisters and their experience growing up in Civil War America.&nbsp;Little Women&nbsp;embodies the complete theatrical experience, guaranteeing a night filled with laughter, tears and a lifting of the spirit. The powerful score soars with the sounds of personal discovery, heartache, and hope – the sounds of a young America finding its voice.

The Producers

Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike terror and hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks’ classic cult comedy film. FPAC presents&nbsp;The Producers!&nbsp;It is a truly “boffo” hit, winning a record twelve Tony Awards. The plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history, thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! The antics of Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom as they maneuver their way fecklessly through finding a show (the gloriously offensive “Springtime for Hitler”), hiring a director, raising the money and finally going to prison for their misdeeds is a lesson in broad comic construction. At the core of the insanely funny adventure is a poignant emotional journey of two very different men who become friends. With a truly hysterical book co-written by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan (Annie) and music and lyrics by Mr. Brooks,&nbsp;The Producers&nbsp;skewers Broadway traditions and takes no prisoners! Content Warning:&nbsp;The Producers is a Mel Brooks comedy full of adult humor and innuendo. Audience discretion is advised.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Princess Folk

Franklin Performing Arts Company presents Family Concert Series: Princess Folk FREE and Open to the Public! Your favorite Disney Princess hits paired with choruses &amp; Folk Songs of the real (and unreal) cultures they come from. Featuring: Sailors, Spinners, Dwarves, &amp; Vikings! Directed by Tim Ayres-Kerr Performed by the Dean Vocal Ensemble! This program is funded by a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Discover the World of Classical Music

Franklin Performing Arts Company presents Family Concert Series: A Violin Adventure into Three Musical Worlds!&nbsp;Performed by&nbsp;FSPA Violin Instructor Irina Fainkichen!&nbsp; FREE and Open to the Public! If you’ve ever wondered&nbsp;what&nbsp;music is or&nbsp;how&nbsp;it can make you feel, join us for a fun and interactive children’s concert! Meet Irina, a violinist and FSPA’s violin teacher and her daughter Rachel, a scientist and a pianist, as they guide you on an exciting musical journey. Together, we’ll explore the magical world of classical music, where sounds can make us dance, sing, and march to the rhythm of life. From lively melodies to gentle lullabies, experience how music can express emotions and tell stories without words. This concert is the perfect introduction to classical music for young listeners, filled with energy, fun, and plenty of surprises! Come, bring your curiosity, and let the music lead the way! This program is funded by a grant from the Franklin Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Disney Stars of Broadway in Concert

Spring Break is early this year! No need to book a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World - We're bringing the Disney Stars of Broadway to YOU for a one-night-only concert in Franklin, Massachusetts! Join Broadway's Mary Poppins (Ashley Brown), The Genie in Aladdin (Michael James Scott), and Tarzan (Josh Strickland) for a magical medley of your favorite Disney classics live at THE BLACK BOX this Saturday, Jan. 18th at 7:00 pm celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Franklin School for the Performing Arts. Parking is free, and all are welcome! Don't miss this rare, limited-time opportunity to see Broadway stars up close for a fraction of the cost. Tickets are on sale now at THEBLACKBOXonline.com or by calling the box office at 508-528-3370!

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

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Experiences