Madison, WI – For just the second time in their history, Forward Theater Company will present a musical as part of their season. This time, it’s in the form of the popular Broadway hit, Gutenberg! The Musical! by Anthony King & Scott Brown. Directed by Jen Uphoff Gray. Performances are in the Playhouse at Overture Center for the Arts, November 6-30. The production features Greg Pragel and Doug Clemons.
After the success of the 2023 Broadway revival, Forward is giving Madison theatergoers a chance to join in on the fun of Gutenberg!, something audiences are hungry for.
“Gutenberg! may not be a typical Forward show – it’s a brilliantly silly musical that may not send you home thinking deeply – but it’s exactly the kind of joyful, communal experience we love bringing to our audiences,” said Artistic Director Jen Uphoff Gray. “We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of theatrical adventures, and this one delivers laughter, connection, and a much-needed break from the outside world.”
To meet demand, Forward has added five additional performances, closing November 30. Extending the run of Gutenberg! past Thanksgiving will give audiences the chance to begin the holiday season with a laugh.
THE STORY
Bud and Doug have poured their hearts (and not much research) into their brand-new, Broadway-bound musical about Johann Gutenberg, inventor of the printing press. With nothing but trucker hats, a piano, and relentless optimism, these two lovable underdogs play the entire cast of characters in a laugh-out-loud love letter to musicals. A chaotic and hilarious celebration of big dreams, bad ideas, and the magic of live theater.
ARTISTIC TEAM
Gutenberg! The Musical! features Doug Clemons and Greg Pragel, alongside musicians Joy Bauman, William Preston, and Laura Schram.
Scenic Designer: Mike LawlerLighting Designer: Colin Gawronski Costume Designer: Shannon Heibler Sound Designer: James Uphoff Props Director: Jolie Sarajian
THE DETAILS
WHAT
Forward Theater Company presents:
Gutenberg! The Musical! by Anthony King & Scott Brown
WHEN & WHERE
Thursday, November 6 – Sunday, November 30, 2025
Extended through Thanksgiving weekend (five performances added)
Evening performances at 7:30pm, Matinees (Sat & Sun) at 2:00pm
All performances are in the Playhouse at Overture Center for the Arts, Madison, WI
TICKETS
Tickets are on sale now, and can be purchased online at forwardtheater.com, or via overture.org. Tickets can be purchased via phone at 608.258.4141
Adults: $48-$61
Artist rate: $20 | Student rate: $17
Thursday, September 4 preview performance ticket prices – General public: $30, Students/Educators: $15
ACCESSIBILITY
ASL Interpretation: The Saturday, November 22 performance at 2:00pm will have ASL interpretation and audio description. Special seating is available with a view of the ASL interpreter.
Forward Theater also offers a variety of amenities in the Playhouse at Overture Center that make the theater going experience more accessible for all, including assistive listening devices, large print programs, and more. Visit forwardtheater.com/accessibility for details.
SPONSORS
Gutenberg! The Musical! is generously sponsored by MG&E and The Cap Times.
ABOUT FORWARD THEATER COMPANY
Founded in 2009, FTC creates a home base for Wisconsin theater professionals and audiences that expands the cultural and economic life of the greater Madison area.
MORE INFO
For more information, visit forwardtheater.com/show/gutenberg-the-musical
For press inquiries, photos and interviews, please contact Director of Marketing Scott Haden, (608) 234-5001, shaden@forwardtheater.com.
