Arts and Life

Centennial Hall celebrates 20 years of Broadway in Tucson

Quentin S. Agnello

August 9, 2025

The Centennial Hall with signs of upcoming shows on the University of Arizona campus, on Jul. 29. The Centennial Hall is getting ready for the Broadway season at the university.

This year, Broadway in Tucson is celebrating its 20th anniversary. From breaking box office records in 2006 with “The Lion King” to now partnering with Arizona Arts Live and University of Arizona’s Centennial Hall, Broadway in Tucson has been spreading the love of live theater to our community for two decades.

General manager Mario Di Vetta is excited to present “Les Misérables” on Sept. 9, “& Juliet” on Oct. 29 , “Moulin Rouge!” on Dec. 2 and much more this fall and spring.

In 1912, Broadway in Tucson, a Nederlander entertainment dynasty of America, spent many generations reviving old shows. It brought shows to new audiences and provided a spotlight for new shows across the United States. Part of that vision was Broadway in Tucson.

“We are the only presenters for Broadway on campus,” Vetta said. According to their website, Broadway in Tucson got their start at the Tucson Music Hall in 2004, premiering with the show “Movin’ Out.” In 2010 they partnered with the former UA Presents to bring Broadway to Centennial hall. “We present national touring Broadway shows.” Vetta said.

“Les Misérables,” widely regarded as one of the best Broadway productions of the 20th century, now makes its way to stages across the country, including our very own Centennial Hall.

Other new and successful shows will come to the stage, such as “& Juliet: There’s life after Romeo.” The musical composition was written by renowned songwriter Max Martin and tells a story written by “Schitt’s Creek” writer David West Read.

“Most of our shows are week-long. Tuesday through Sunday,” Vetta said. “We’ve never had so many popular shows [before] this season.” Their latest and biggest success was Disney’s “The Lion King,” where over 83,000 people attended throughout its six weeks of major success.

Those looking to experience a heart-gripping story or wanting to see the new thing shaking the stage on Broadway can find it at Centennial Hall.

Ticket listings are available at broadwayintucson.com.