MANSFIELD — Major Broadway and television talent are coming together in Mansfield this winter for a special event that has quickly become something of a local phenomenon.
Emmy Award-winning and Tony nominated composer, director, and producer Jeff Richmond comes together with beloved television and Broadway stars for a benefit production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, all in support of Mansfield’s historic Renaissance Theatre.
Leading the cast are Richmond, television favorites Brian Stepanek (“The Suite Life of Zack & Cody”), John Lutz (“30 Rock”, Late Night with Seth Myers), and Broadway standout Kyle Selig (Mean Girls, “Monster High”).
Directed by Richmond, the production is presented in association with Fancy Music Inc., the New York–based company behind the musical DNA of projects including 30 Rock, Mean Girls, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and The Four Seasons.
Over the past three years, the Renaissance Theatre has quietly become a place where nationally-recognized artists choose to gather, both performing and immersing themselves in the community.
These artists live in Mansfield during rehearsals, work closely with local performers, and experience firsthand the small-town theatre environment that shaped many of their own early careers.
What began as a single collaboration has grown into a recurring tradition, and one that artists continue to seek out.
This production serves as a full benefit for the Renaissance Theatre, with proceeds partially supporting the organization’s “Road to 100” initiative: an ambitious restoration effort as the Renaissance looks ahead to its 100th anniversary in 2028, and the next chapter of its nearly century-long role in Mansfield’s cultural life.
Planned upgrades include new seating, a restored curtain, and a revitalized marquee, ensuring the nearly century-old theatre remains a vibrant cultural home for generations to come.
Winner of six Tony awards, Stephen Sondheim’s A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is built for nonstop laughs.
Mistaken identities, outrageous characters, and physical comedy collide with iconic songs like “Comedy Tonight” and a fast-paced story line about hijinks in ancient Rome, making for a hilarious production that’s perfect for both seasoned theatre attendees and those new to Broadway musicals.
An Ohio native, Richmond is spearheading the project as a way to give back to the type of theatre that helped launch his own career.
After first bringing his talent to Mansfield in 2023, he has continued to return, and bring friends who are drawn by the community, the theatre, and the experience of mentoring the up-and-coming artists who will follow in their footsteps.
“Our hope is that this collaboration could grow into a yearly tradition, connecting world-class artists with a community that embraces them wholeheartedly,” Richmond said.
Also returning home is Stepanek, another Ohio native, who appeared on the Renaissance stage last season in The Producers.
His return continues a growing pattern: nationally-known artists choosing to spend meaningful time in Mansfield as they work closely with local casts, form lasting ties to the community, and bring a wider circle of family, friends, and fellow artists to discover the Renaissance for themselves.
President & CEO Chelsie Thompson says the momentum is both thrilling and deeply humbling.
“Every time these artists come to Mansfield, they fall in love with the people, the process, and this extraordinary theatre,” Thompson said.
“It’s incredibly humbling to share our special place with people from across the country, and even more meaningful to see them carry those experiences back out into the world, spreading genuine excitement about Mansfield.
“Starting the new year with this kind of energy reminds us just how much is possible when a community believes in its arts.”
With performances running Feb. 21, 22, 27, 28, and March 1, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum offers audiences one of the first opportunities of the new year to be part of something truly special: a Broadway-caliber production produced within an historic theatre and supporting the future of the arts in Mansfield.
VIP and Opening Night reception tickets are limited, and early demand is strong. For tickets and information, visit the Renaissance Theatre box office or website.