BLOOMINGTON – This spring, Constellation Stage & Screen is thrilled to introduce a new program as a part of its Constellation for Kids series – The PB&J Cafe: A Dinner Theater for Kids! Constellation’s inaugural PB&J Cafe experience will present Finn: A New Musical by renowned musical theater writing duo Kooman and Dimond, from May 1 – 17 at the Waldron Auditorium.
At the PB&J Cafe, the Waldron auditorium will be transformed into an interactive dining experience, complete with pre-show activities, a meal during the performance, and a chance to meet the cast after the show! Each child will receive a meal, featuring a classic PB&J (or alternative main option), a tasty side, a sweet treat for dessert, and a juice box, while grown-ups will enjoy a grazing table featuring a selection of hors d’oeuvres.
During this immersive dinner theater experience, families will have a blast watching Finn, a heartwarming musical adventure about a young shark on the brink of growing up. As he prepares to join the fearsome Shark Guard, Finn can’t shake the feeling that he’s different from the other sharks. Deep inside, he discovers a colorful fish inside him—a part of himself that longs to sparkle, sing, and dance. As Finn embarks on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and adventure, he finds the courage to be himself! From the creators of Doc McStuffins and Vampirina, Finn is an inspiring and uplifting story for kids of all ages.
In February 2025, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., announced the cancellation of a planned national tour of Finn. The Center cited financial reasons for its decision to cancel, but that explanation stood in contrast to the widely understood reality that Finn’s themes of inclusivity and belonging did not align with the current administration’s agenda. Finn’s story didn’t end when plans changed. It found a new home – right here at Constellation Stage & Screen. We are proud to be the first regional theater to produce Finn, affirming our belief in theater as a tool for fostering empathy, inclusion, and joy.
Constellation’s upcoming production proudly showcases a dynamic mix of local talent and returning regional performers. Leading the cast is Tucker Ransom (seen previously in Curious George: The Golden Meatball and Alex Gold: Stuck on Repeat) as Finn. Starring alongside Ransom are LillyBea Ireland as Aggie, Laura Rong as Seasil, Maggie Lynn Held as Auntie, Sophia Hoffman as Bruce, Sam Durnil as Roscoe, and Sheryl Doades as Lola.
The musical is directed by Daniella Wheelock, Associate Artistic Director of Constellation Stage & Screen and director of Wipeout and Webster’s B!+@#, who will be working closely with Choreographer Callie Rekas. Joining the creative team are Scenic Designer David Wade, Lighting Designer Chelsie McPhilimy, Sound Designer Eric Doades, Costume Designer Dana Tzvetkov, Stage Manager Airen Pike, and Assistant Stage Manager Mars Abbett.
In an effort to make the show accessible to all families, Constellation is offering a sensory-friendly performance on Sunday, May 17, at 4:00 p.m. This special performance is designed to create a theater experience that is welcoming to all families with children with sensory sensitivities. In addition to lighting, sound, seating modifications, and a nut-free environment, Constellation’s Sensory-Friendly Performance is Pay What You Will, allowing audiences to choose their own ticket price (starting as low as $13). To learn more about Constellation’s sensory-friendly programming, visit our website.
Finn: A New Musical — At the PB&J Cafe runs May 1-17 at the Waldron Auditorium, and tickets are on sale now! For most performances, tickets start at $23 for children and $33 for adults (including fees). Tickets include a meal and are available through Constellation’s website, seeconstellation.org, over the phone at 812-336-9300, Monday-Friday from Noon – 5:00 p.m., or in-person at 122 South Walnut Street, open Wednesday – Friday from Noon to 5:00 p.m.
