Gulf Coast Rep set to open new Playhouse in Downtown OWA

Foley, Ala. — A vibrant new destination for live theater is taking center stage on the Alabama Gulf Coast as Gulf Coast Rep opens its brand-new location in Downtown OWA. The curtain rises on this exciting new chapter as OWA Parks & Resort welcomes the talented team led by Alabama native and artistic director Darren Butler.

The Gulf Coast Rep is set to provide another opportunity to advance theater, while sharing impactful stories to inspire audiences. The new Playhouse, previously the Bohemian in Downtown OWA, seats 250 people and serves as a launchpad for new plays and musicals, some of which could find their way to prestigious platforms like Broadway, Off-Broadway or even London’s West End. The intimate space immerses audiences in live theater – giving patrons an up-close-and-personal experience.

“We are thrilled to have Gulf Coast Rep as part of the OWA Parks & Resort entertainment destination,” said Catherine Hasty, Manager of Marketing, OWA Parks & Resort. “This new location on our property will provide their guests with plenty of convenient parking, as well as a variety of restaurants on site, helping to create a fun experience overall. We are excited for this opportunity for us to collaborate with the theater and continue to be a great community partner,” said Hasty. 

Expanding its reach beyond the stage, the organization plans to launch educational programming during the 2025-26 academic year. A professional touring troupe will bring classic children’s literature, reading list favorites, and compelling one-person historical shows to the schools.

“We are incredibly excited to be a part of the OWA community. As a launchpad for new work, patrons will have the opportunity to discover new plays and musicals for the American theatre. To take an idea from page to stage is a process. There is so much The Gulf Coast Rep has to offer our tourists and our local community. WATCH a performance. PARTICIPATE in an acting class or work on a show. SUPPORT working artists! SHOP at our Gulf Coast Rep store opening March 1st. Come be a part of the arts!”

The first production of their inaugural season at the new Playhouse in Downtown OWA is the southern classic Steel Magnolias. Opening on January 30th, the beloved classic features eight performances.

The season continues with other scheduled performances including Runaway Home, a new musical with books and lyrics by Butler, followed by The House on the Hill with dates in April and May, and this June, audiences can enjoy Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical.

For more information, details on upcoming shows and ticket information visit their website at https://www.gulfcoastrep.com/home.

###

About OWA Parks & Resort: Award-winning OWA Parks & Resort in Coastal Alabama is owned and operated by the Poarch Creek Indians.  OWA’s name is derived from a Creek word for “big water,” and the tropical theme of the 520-acre property was inspired by the Gulf of Mexico, minutes away via the Foley Beach Express.

At the heart of OWA is Tropic Falls, which includes a 23-ride theme park and the region’s largest indoor water park—bigger than a football field and covered by a convertible roof.  Adjacent to the indoor water park and connected by a retractable wall is Big Water Bay, a 30,000 sq. ft. wave pool and Coastal Curl wave simulator.  Just outside the ticketed areas is Downtown OWA. This pedestrian-only streetscape was inspired by Southern small towns and features numerous options for dining, shopping, and entertainment.  The destination resort offers a full calendar of events, from Downtown OWA’s own Mardi Gras Parade to the annual Christmas tree lighting with fireworks and snowfall.

For on-site accommodations, relax at OWA’s own award-winning TownePlace Suites by Marriott.  And for the RV traveler, Tropic Hideaway is a luxury RV resort that has everything you want, starting with its location at OWA Parks and Resort, just minutes from the Alabama beaches off the Foley Beach Express. The sites are all extra wide and feature a full complement of Wi-Fi and hook ups. Premium locations and pull-through sites are available.  OWA is the place in Coastal Alabama to thrill, then chill.