COHOES, NY — Following a string of acclaimed productions and growing audiences at the Cohoes Music Hall, Creative License has announced its 2026–2027 theatrical season, featuring two powerful dramas that explore resilience, loss, memory, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive.
The season opens in September with Breathing Time by acclaimed playwright and screenwriter Beau Willimon, followed in January by the stage thriller The Woman in Black, adapted by Stephen Mallatratt from the bestselling novel by Susan Hill.
Together, the productions continue Creative License’s commitment to presenting thought-provoking, actor-driven work that challenges audiences while delivering compelling theatrical experiences.
A Moving Drama Opens the Season
Running September 18–27, 2026, Breathing Time marks the Capital Region debut of a deeply human drama from the creator of House of Cards and writer of the Tony Award-winning Farragut North.
Directed by Aaron Holbritter, the production features Nick Martiniano, Chad Reid, Rhiannon Artico, Laura Graver, Emily Bryan, and Jacob Bell.
The play follows Jack and Mike, two bankers whose lives are forever altered by an unimaginable tragedy. As the story unfolds, family members brought together by loss struggle to make sense of a future neither expected. Praised by The New York Times as “a simple study in how ordinary relationships can be shaped by much larger events,” Breathing Time offers an intimate look at grief, connection, and the moments that redefine our lives.
Performances will take place September 18, 19, 25, and 26 at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on September 20 and 27 at 2:00 p.m.
A Modern Gothic Classic Arrives in January
The season continues with The Woman in Black, one of the longest-running and most celebrated ghost stories in theatrical history. Directed by Krysta Dennis, the production stars Creative License founders Ian LaChance, Aaron Holbritter, and Casey Polomaine.
Running January 29 through February 7, 2027, the suspense-filled thriller follows a lawyer haunted by a mysterious curse he believes has been cast upon his family by the specter of the Woman in Black. Seeking to tell his story and confront his fears, he enlists the help of a young actor. As the pair delve deeper into the tale, the boundaries between performance and reality begin to blur, transforming the theater itself into a place where the dead may not be content to remain silent.
Widely regarded as one of the most effective stage thrillers ever written, The Woman in Black has captivated audiences around the world with its inventive storytelling, atmospheric suspense, and chilling surprises.
Performances are scheduled for January 29 and 30, February 5 and 6 at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on January 31 and February 7 at 2:00 p.m.
Continuing a Strong Partnership The new season builds on Creative License’s growing presence at the Cohoes Music Hall, where recent productions have drawn critical praise and enthusiastic audience response. The company continues to focus on presenting professional-quality theater that highlights local talent while bringing contemporary and classic works to Capital Region audiences.
Building on Momentum The announcement comes on the heels of a successful run of productions at the Cohoes Music Hall that have helped establish Creative License as one of the Capital Region’s emerging independent theater companies.
Recent productions have earned strong audience response and critical recognition, including A Few Good Men and The Lifespan of a Fact. The latter was praised by reviewers as “a triumphant production that is not to be missed.” (Berksire-on-Stage) while A Few Good Men received acclaim for demonstrating that “If there is such a thing as must-see local theater, A Few Good Men at Cohoes Music Hall is that work.” (WAMC)
“These productions represent exactly the kind of work we want to bring to our audiences,” said Creative License co-founder Aaron Holbritter. “Stories that entertain, challenge, and spark conversation while showcasing the incredible talent we have right here in the Capital Region.”
Beyond the Mainstage
In addition to its 2026-2027 theatrical season, Creative License continues to expand its slate of immersive and special-event programming. This November, the company will partner with the Nacre Dance Group to present Nuts and Crackers, an immersive holiday experience at Universal Preservation Hall inspired by the world of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. The event invites audiences to step inside a festive holiday environment that combines performance, storytelling, and seasonal magic. Creative License also continues to produce its popular interactive entertainment offerings, including And the Winner Is… Dead!, a murder mystery experience designed for private parties, corporate events, fundraisers, and special celebrations. These interactive productions have become an increasingly popular way for organizations and community groups to engage audiences outside of traditional theater settings. The company’s growing portfolio reflects a commitment to creating entertainment experiences that extend beyond the traditional stage, offering audiences multiple ways to engage with live performance throughout the year. Ticket Information Tickets for both mainstage productions will be available through the Cohoes Music Hall box office.
For more information, visit CreativeLicenseOnline.com or contact the Cohoes Music Hall Box Office at thecohoesmusichall.org.
Season At A Glance
Breathing Time by Beau Willimon
September 18–27, 2026
Directed by Aaron Holbritter
The Woman in Black by Stephen Mallatratt
From the novel by Susan Hill
January 29–February 7, 2027
Directed by Krysta Dennis