Following a sold-out run and overwhelming audience response, Urban Stages (Frances Hill, Founding Artistic Director; Antoinette Mullins, Associate Artistic Director) is thrilled to present an Encore Production of the New York premiere of The Porch On Windy Hill, a heartwarming and musically rich theatrical experience, written by Sherry Stregack Lutken, Lisa Helmi Johanson, Morgan Morse & David M. Lutken, that has captivated audiences across the country.
Conceived and directed by Sherry Stregack Lutken, the play is set against the rolling landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains and infused with timeless American folk music. The Porch On Windy Hill tells a tender, funny, and deeply moving story of family, belonging, intolerance, and the hope of redemption — and the power of music to heal wounds that words alone cannot.
The production features a dynamic cast of actor-musicians: Tora Nogami Alexander (NBC’s “Rise”), David M. Lutken (IRT’s Woody Sez: The Life & Music of Woody Guthrie; Broadway’s Inherit the Wind, The Civil War, Ring of Fire, The Will Rogers Follies), and Morgan Morse (The Public’s Southern Comfort).
“At a time when so many of us are craving connection, The Porch on Windy Hill reminds us of the simple, profound joy of gathering together and sharing stories and music,” said Frances Hill, Founding Artistic Director of Urban Stages. “This is the kind of theatre that brings people back — back to the room, back to each other, and back to the pleasure of sitting shoulder to shoulder and feeling something together. It’s truly a joy to welcome this beautiful show home to our stage.”
Developed during the pandemic by its original team of actor-musicians, The Porch on Windy Hill premiered at Ivoryton Playhouse (CT) in 2021 and earned four CT Critics’ Circle nominations, including Outstanding Director, Outstanding Actor, Outstanding Actress, and Best Ensemble. Since then, the show has enjoyed acclaimed productions at Northlight Theatre (Chicago), Merrimack Repertory Theatre, Weston Theater Company, and People’s Light, with critics repeatedly praising its soul-stirring music, emotional generosity, and irresistible humanity. This past fall, the show received its New York debut with Urban Stages. Across the country, audiences and critics have been raving:
“Beginning with edges jagged enough to draw blood, they end like sea glass – polished into a rough beauty.” – Chicago Sun-Times; “A musical treat to the ear and a soulful treat to the heart.” -Evanston RoundTable; “A fabulous hootenanny… great pride, great healing – but most of all, great music.” Pages on Stages; “A well-acted, well-sung, well-played, beautiful, heartfelt story that will make you smile, laugh, tap your feet – and possibly shed a tear.” – Front Row Center; “Powerful. As many people as possible should see this play.” – The Knockturnal; “It’s everything a stellar musical is: thought-provoking, entertaining, emotionally stirring, and something that imparts a feeling of growth.” – The Bluegrass Situation; “The Porch on Windy Hill is a pleasure!” OffOffOnline; “Entertaining and authentic. Great music and a timely, touching play. Acting and musicianship are excellent. Songs are skillful, entertaining, and authentic.” – Theatre Pizzazz.
The creative team includes scenic design by Andrew Robinson, lighting design by John Salutz, sound design by Sun Hee Kil, costume design by Grace Jeon, and production stage manager by Leigh Selting.
The Porch on Windy Hill
Begins January 25 – February 22, 2026; Opening night is January 29, 2026
Performance Schedule: Monday & Wednesday–Friday at 7 PM; Saturday at 3 PM & 7 PM; Sunday at 3 PM.
Runs approximately 2:10 hours, with intermission. For tickets & info visit www.urbanstages.org
