American Repertory Theater Extends ‘Wonder’ Production

Cambridge, Massachusetts, September 27, 2025

News Summary

The American Repertory Theater has announced the extension of its world-premiere musical production, ‘Wonder’, to February 8, allowing more audiences to experience the poignant adaptation of R.J. Palacio’s novel. This family-friendly show addresses themes of empathy and resilience through the story of Auggie Pullman, who faces societal perceptions due to his facial difference. The musical, featuring music by the GRAMMY Award-winning duo A Great Big World, has garnered praise and will now run longer than originally planned.

Cambridge, Massachusetts — American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) has extended the world-premiere production of the musical “Wonder” to February 8, 2026, two weeks longer than initially planned.

Key details and immediate significance

The extension confirms additional performances beyond the production’s original closing period, allowing more audiences to see the stage adaptation. The musical is based on R.J. Palacio’s novel “Wonder” and the film adaptation produced by Lionsgate and Mandeville Films, which grossed over $300 million and received an Academy Award nomination. The show is recommended for audiences aged 8 and above.

Creative team and principal production roles

Music and lyrics for “Wonder” are written by the GRAMMY Award-winning duo A Great Big World (Ian Axel and Chad King). The book for the musical is authored by Sarah Ruhl. Direction of the musical is by Taibi Magar. Choreography is led by Helen Hayes Award winner Katie Spelman. Music supervision is provided by Nadia DiGiallonardo. Timothy R. Semon is the Production Stage Manager. C12 Casting is responsible for casting, with details to be announced later.

Scenic design will be by Matt Saunders, a Drama Desk Award winner. Costume design will be handled by Tony Award winner Linda Cho. Lighting design is being executed by Tony Award winner Bradley King. Sound design will be created by Tony Award winner Cody Spencer. Associate creative roles include Cagla Karslioglu as associate director, Colin McIlvaine (associate scenic designer), Herin Kaputkin (associate costume designer), and Caecilia Armstrong (associate sound designer).

Vocals coaching includes Najah Muhammad as acting coach, Kate Wilson as text vocal coach, and Chris York as singing vocal coach. Production support is provided by Janet and Irv Plotkin and The Linda Hammett Ory & Andrew Ory Charitable Trust.

What the show is about

“Wonder” tells the uplifting story of Auggie Pullman, who, after being homeschooled, navigates the challenges of attending school and facing societal perceptions of his facial difference. Themes of the musical include empathy, resilience, and the power of kindness.

Audience guidance and context

The production is framed as a family-friendly stage musical appropriate for viewers aged 8 and above. The material centers on social and emotional themes and portrays experiences tied to facial difference and the process of integrating into a school community after being homeschooled.

Supporting details about the production

The world-premiere designation indicates that the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) production is the first full-scale staging of this musical adaptation. The involvement of award-winning designers and creators is highlighted across scenic, costume, lighting, and sound departments, as well as in the composition and book. The creative lineup brings together recognized names in theater and music, and the extension through February 8, 2026, provides additional opportunity for audiences and critics to assess the production during its inaugural run.

Logistics and next steps

Casting information will be released at a later date by C12 Casting. Ticketing details, performance schedules, and specific venue information for the extended dates are managed by the A.R.T. box office and its ticketing partners. The production stage management and associate creative teams will continue in their announced roles through the extended run.

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