Dolly Gallagher Levi is a woman on the make. And what’s she making? Whatever you need. A husband? A wife? Dance lessons? Pierced ears? There’s never been a more indefatigable figure in American musical theatre, and perhaps that’s why the role has served as a vehicle for some of our greatest stars, from Carol Channing and Pearl Bailey, to Barbra Streisand and Bette Midler. Now, the DMV’s reigning musical superstar, Nova Y. Payton (World Goes 'Round), takes on the title role of a musical that churns out laughs, songs, and over-the-top antics as fast as humanly possible…and then goes a little faster. Audiences of all ages are guaranteed a great time at this classic musical about love, second chances, and the magic of an adventure to the big city!
Book by Michael Stewart
Music and Lyrics by Jerry Herman
Based on the play The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder
Original Production Directed and Choreographed by Gower Champion
Music Directed by Christopher Youstra
Choreographed by Eamon Foley
Directed by Kevin S. McAllister
Accessibility
Audio-Described Performance – Wednesday, November 19 at 7:00 pm
(Please email wbrown@olneytheatre.org if you plan to utilize this service.)
ASL Interpreted Performance – Thursday, November 20 at 7:30 pm
(Please email wbrown@olneytheatre.org if you plan to utilize this service.)
Sensory Friendly Performance – Saturday, December 6 at 1:00 pm
(Please call 301-924-3400 to purchase tickets for this performance)
Community Events
From Sweethearts to Swipes: Matchmaking Across the Ages
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Date: Sunday, November 9, 2025, 5:00 - 6:00 pm
Location: Roberts Mainstage
Cost: $10/Free for members
What does Dolly Levi have in common with today’s matchmakers—and what sets them apart? Before the opening night performance of Hello, Dolly!, join us at 5 pm for a fascinating Behind the Scenes conversation that compares Dolly’s old-world charm with the digital tools and techniques shaping love in the 21st century.
Inside the Music of Hello, Dolly!
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Date: Sunday, November 16, 2025, 4:30 - 5:30 pm
Location: Roberts Mainstage
Cost: Registration Coming Soon!
Director of Music Theatre Chris Youstra has many responsibilities at Olney–when he’s not leading Musical Theatre Trivia Nights, teaching the music to our casts, or conducting the orchestra for performances, he’s at home orchestrating and composing his own music. Join us for this masterclass where Maestro Youstra will show you the elegance and whimsy in Jerry Herman’s score for Hello, Dolly! In this masterclass, you’ll learn some of the motifs and inspirations for the music. Perfect for composers or musical theatre-lovers alike.
Onstage Tours
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Dates: Sunday, November 23, 2025, 4:00 pm; Sunday, December 7, 2025, 4:00 pm
Location: Roberts Mainstage
Cost: $10
How does a professional theater bring the magic of a story on stage? We’re inviting folks of every age to come on stage and see how we do it. Lighting demonstrations, costume and prop displays, scenery moves… our professional production staff Philip Snider, Stage Operations Manager & Carissa Gilson, Wardrobe Supervisor/Costume Shop Associate will take you on an amazing Onstage Tour. RSVP early; this event tends to sell out fast!
Happy Hour: Musical Theatre Trivia!
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Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025, 6:00 pm
Location: Cafritz Lobby
Cost: $10
If your brain is full of random Broadway-related knowledge that you don’t know what to do with, put it to the test at our Musical Theatre Trivia Happy Hour! Sign up with a team, or come as a single and make some new friends. Then, take in a performance of Hello, Dolly! (tickets sold separately).
Arts & Crafts with Anna Cable
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Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025, 11:00 am
Location: Actors Hall
Cost: $10
Join our Props Supervisor, Anna Cable, for a fun and easy hands-on activity inspired by the whimsical world of Hello, Dolly! Anna, who helped bring the show’s props to life onstage, will guide participants through a simple, step-by-step craft project connected to the colorful hats, parasols, and other turn-of-the-century treasures you’ll see in the production. No special skills or supplies needed—just bring your creativity and enjoy making a keepsake you can take home!
