Second Generation Theatre Company (2nd Gen) returns to the downtown theatre district for the 2026-2027 season with a cult classic musical (BATBOY), a beloved play (PROOF), a hidden gem (GEORGIA MERTCHING IS DEAD), and a hilarious Broadway hit (MEAN GIRLS: THE MUSICAL). For a limited time, Buffalo audience members can purchase a season subscription for the first three shows at the Smith (now with assigned seating) that includes a special ticket deal for MEAN GIRLS at 710! Season tickets are on sale until September 15.
Founded in 2013 by Kristin Bentley, Arin Lee Dandes, and Kelly Copps, Second Generation Theatre Company is dedicated to inspiring a new generation of theatregoers and creating powerful, community-driven productions that foster appreciation, understanding, and engagement across diverse audiences.
2nd Gen’s eclectic season was chosen with their audience members in mind. “Our loyal patrons have told us multiple times they love that we will give them something well known with our season, and that the titles they may not know are always worth checking out and will surprise them,” said Kristin Bentley, Executive Director.
“We can always be relied on to ensure that every title we present will be with great care and the highest quality of execution that we’ve come to be known for.”
“There is always a standing list of shows that we want to do,” said Artistic Director Kelly Copps, who knows that 2nd Gen audiences value the variety presented in the season.
“We want our audiences to see something they know, something they don’t know, and something that makes them think. Our audiences have options when they are planning a night out, and we are thrilled that they return to us. 2nd Gen’s patrons trust us to choose something they didn’t even know they needed, and we love that.”
On the heels (or should we say “wings”) of the acclaimed star-studded New York revival, 2nd Gen kicks off their season with Batboy: The Musical. This cult classic, inspired by the headlines from the supermarket tabloid Weekly World News, tells the story of Edgar, the aforementioned half man/half bat found in a cave, who desperately wants to assimilate into a small West Virginia town. “Bat Boy is perfect for spooky season,” said Bentley. “There are a ton of kooky characters, catchy music, and comedy that will have the audience rolling. Doug Weyand is directing and directed TOXIC AVENGER for us in a similar slot, and it was a smash hit; if you loved that, you shouldn’t miss BAT BOY.” The show’s score, written by Laurence O’Keefe, features some of the most hilarious and tuneful music. “I personally can’t stop humming ‘Hold me, Bat Boy,’ said Bentley.
In November, the company presents David Auburn’s PROOF. “PROOF is a Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning play for a reason,” said Bentley, adding, “it is so well written with compelling characters, complicated relationships, and a universal generational story of love, loss, legacy, and what we inherit vs. the path one forges for oneself. An audience member who hasn’t seen this show will be shocked at the twists and turns as the plot unravels, and for those familiar with the story – it’s worth revisiting to see our incredible cast and their unique takes on the characters. We are especially thrilled to have a Buffalo favorite, Matt Witten, return to our stage as Robert.”
Featured in 2nd Gen’s 2025 reading series, GEORGIA MERTCHING IS DEAD was so well received by audiences, that the company has decided to present a full production in the spring of 2027. “The chemistry between Brittany Bassett-Baran, Alexandria Watts and Leah Berst ALONE is worth the price of admission,” said Copps. “Their energy cannot be contained, and if you’ve ever had a group of friends that has turned into family, this show is for you. Even better, it’s the story of three women who happen to be in recovery- not “a story about three recovering addicts.” There’s such a difference, and we are thrilled to be partnering with Spectrum Health and Human Services to connect this story to the community meaningfully.”
In June of 2027, 2nd Gen is going to make “fetch” finally happen with their production of MEAN GIRLS at Shea’s 710. Following the incredible success of last year’s production of MAMMA MIA!, which broke records at the venue, the company is proud to produce the perfect summer musical. “It is SO MUCH FUN!” said Copps. “School’s winding down, the sun is shining, June is the time to toss on something pink from your closet, grab your bestie, and head to 710 for this deliciously fun pop musical. Whether you’re like us and the movie came out when you were in college, or you’re just getting introduced to it now, MEAN GIRLS holds up. The musical is clever, Tina Fey’s dialogue is hilarious, and it’s a fabulous night out.” The production of MEAN GIRLS is not included in the season subscription. However, season subscribers have access to an incredible exclusive ticket offer for the production.
In addition to these shows, 2nd Gen’s reading series returns. “Thanks to our generous sponsors, it remains completely FREE of charge to the audience,” said Bentley. The reading series allows us to breathe some life into titles that really interest us, some of which we will continue on to a full production.” In fact, this season’s GEORGIA MERTCHING IS DEAD and last season’s hit comedy PURE GLITTER were first presented in the reading series.
The reading series also allows both audiences and artists to engage with new and exciting material. “We use it as an opportunity to give directing opportunities to artists who are interested in growing in this area as well, which allows us to explore more unique perspectives than just our traditional mainstage season does,” said Bentley. “We end each reading with a brief talkback where we hear directly from the audience on their take on the play, and that discussion alone has prompted some of the full productions that have followed. There is no better opportunity to make your opinion known than to attend a free reading and participate in the discussion that follows!” More information about the free reading series (including titles and dates) is available here.
To subscribe to 2nd Gen’s 2026-2027 season, featuring BATBOY, PROOF, GEORGIA MERTCHING IS DEAD (which includes a special ticket deal for MEAN GIRLS), click here.