by Chris Peterson, OnStage Blog Founder

Sometimes, you want to be the theatre that surprises your audience. The one that doesn’t just give them the comfort food of the season, but introduces them to something new—something they didn’t even know they were missing.

These ten shows aren’t just underdone. They’re practically undiscovered in many corners of the community theatre world. But trust me: they’re worth it.

PLAYS

1. Skin Deep by Jon Lonoff

*Ashley Snow and Micheal George in* ‘Skin Deep’ at the Old Opera House *Photo by Adam Blackstock.*

A romantic comedy that avoids the usual clichés. It centers on a plus-sized woman and her awkward blind date, and how vulnerability and honesty can lead to unexpected connection. The humor is warm and organic, not mean-spirited, and it offers fantastic roles for actors over 40. It’s sweet, smart, and disarmingly moving.

Licensing: Dramatists Play Service

2. Time Stands Still by Donald Margulies

The cast for Westport Community Theatre’s production of “Time Stands Still” includes, from left, Dana Chiapparelli, Aaron Newcome, Phillip Lorenzo and Emily Ramsey. / Contributed photo

This tight, emotionally charged four-hander explores the personal aftermath of war through the lens of journalism and trauma. Characters are forced to choose between comfort and purpose, between safety and truth. Ideal for small theatres ready to tackle moral gray areas and give audiences something to chew on long after curtain call.

Licensing: Dramatists Play Service

3. The Book of Will by Lauren Gunderson

‘The Book of Will’ at the 6th Street Playhouse

Part celebration, part history lesson, and part love letter to theatre itself, this play tells the story of the friends who saved Shakespeare’s words from being lost forever. It’s clever, theatrical, and packed with heart—and it reminds your audience why storytelling, legacy, and collaboration matter. Great for a large, age-diverse cast.

Licensing: Concord Theatricals (Samuel French)

4. Eleemosynary by Lee Blessing

With only three characters—grandmother, mother, and daughter—this poetic drama traces a complicated lineage of women haunted by brilliance and emotional distance. The word “eleemosynary” itself becomes a metaphor for the ways we give and withhold love. It's a small show with big emotional impact and monologues that are actor gold.

Licensing: Dramatists Play Service

5. Mauritius by Theresa Rebeck

What starts as a family dispute over a stamp collection quickly escalates into a psychological chess match with con men, betrayal, and blurred lines between sentiment and greed. This play is lean, gripping, and surprisingly funny in places. It’s perfect for companies looking for something modern, edgy, and fast-paced without a huge cast.

Licensing: Dramatists Play Service

MUSICALS

1. Edges by Pasek and Paul

Written when they were still in college, this song cycle captures the uncertainty, frustration, and hope of being in your 20s. The music is catchy and the lyrics are sharp, making it ideal for a younger cast looking to express something personal. Bonus: it’s incredibly easy to produce and can work with minimal sets.

Licensing: Music Theatre International (MTI)

2. Little by Little by Brad Ross, Ellen Greenfield, and Hal Hackady

This charming, small-cast chamber musical follows three childhood friends as they grow up, fall in love (sometimes with each other), and try to make sense of their adult lives. With just three actors, a piano, and a few props, the show captures the emotional rollercoaster of friendships evolving over time. The score is tuneful, funny, and bittersweet—and it’s a great pick for companies looking for something intimate and actor-driven that doesn’t require a full orchestra or elaborate set.

Licensing: Samuel French (Concord Theatricals)

3. A Man of No Importance by Ahrens, Flaherty & McNally

Based on the 1994 film, this tender musical explores closeted identity, friendship, and community through a Dublin bus conductor directing Salome at a local church. It’s a quiet show, but a powerful one, with deeply human characters and a gorgeous score. For theatres that love actor-driven musicals with real heart.

Licensing: Music Theatre International (MTI)

4. The Immigrant by Steven M. Alper and Sarah Knapp

Set in 1909, this musical tells the true story of Haskell Harelik, a Jewish man who becomes an unexpected part of a Texas town. It’s intimate and thoughtful, with themes of tolerance, change, and faith. With just four actors, it offers emotional richness without requiring major resources—perfect for smaller or touring companies.

Licensing: MusicalWriters.com (also available via Stage Rights / Broadway Licensing Group)

5. Island Song by Carner & Gregor

A contemporary musical revue about five New Yorkers navigating careers, loneliness, and connection in the city that never sleeps. It’s funny, heartfelt, and incredibly relatable for millennial and Gen Z audiences. It works beautifully as a showcase for strong singers and offers flexibility in staging, casting, and even song selection.

Licensing: Broadway Licensing (under the Stage Rights imprint)

Don’t be afraid of titles your audience hasn’t heard of—these lesser-known works often contain the most rewarding roles, the most exciting stories, and the most transformative moments. Community theatre can be a place of rediscovery. Why not start with one of these?

Ten Deep Cuts Community Theatres Should Discover

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