The Lyric Repertory Company (Lyric Rep), one of Utah’s longest-running professional theatre programs, has received a series of new grants to strengthen its finances ahead of its 60th Anniversary Season. The funding will help the company expand productions, improve facilities, and increase access to live theatre in northern Utah.
Founded in 1967 and affiliated with Utah State University (USU), the Lyric Rep is preparing for a milestone year in 2026. The new grants come at a critical time, allowing the company to restore pandemic-era losses and support the creative team responsible for bringing high-quality summer theatre to the Caine Lyric Theatre in downtown Logan.
A Boost Before a Milestone Year
The new funding comes from multiple sources, including the Utah Division of Arts & Museums, the National Endowment for the Arts, and private donors through the Cache Valley Center for the Arts.
Artistic Director Adrianne Moore said the grants will help the company “build stability and creative freedom” heading into its diamond anniversary.
“These grants mean we can plan boldly for our 60th season,” Moore said. “They ensure that our artists, technicians, and staff have the support to deliver the level of professional theatre our audiences expect.”
The company did not disclose the total funding amount, but officials said the grants will directly support artistic programming, production design, and accessibility initiatives such as captioned performances and student discounts.
| Grant Source | Purpose | Year Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Utah Division of Arts & Museums | Operational support and outreach | 2025 |
| National Endowment for the Arts | Production design and creative development | 2025 |
| Private Donor Fund (CacheArts Partnership) | Theatre maintenance and education | 2025 |
The Lyric Repertory Company typically stages four productions each summer, ranging from classic comedies and dramas to contemporary works and musicals. The 2026 lineup is expected to feature several new plays, a revival of an early Lyric production, and a special 60th Anniversary Gala.
Preserving a Cultural Landmark
The Lyric Rep’s home, the historic Caine Lyric Theatre, has been a cultural centerpiece of downtown Logan for decades. Originally opened in 1913 and restored through community support, the theatre is owned by Utah State University and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Recent infrastructure challenges, including rising maintenance costs and aging equipment, have made financial sustainability a growing concern. The new grants will allow the Lyric to address those needs while investing in the theatre’s future.
“Keeping the Lyric operational and welcoming is a labor of love,” said Dean Joseph Rand of the USU College of Humanities and Social Sciences. “These funds ensure we can continue to provide a space where students, professionals, and audiences come together through the power of storytelling.”
The Lyric also serves as a training ground for USU theatre students, offering hands-on experience in stage management, performance, design, and production. Each summer, students work alongside professional actors and directors to produce an entire repertory season — a model rarely found at the university level.
According to the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, arts organizations like the Lyric contribute more than $2.7 billion annually to Utah’s economy and play a vital role in community identity and tourism.
Expanding Outreach and Education
Beyond producing theatre, the Lyric Rep is known for its commitment to arts education and community engagement. The new grants will help expand programs such as student matinees, acting workshops, and youth mentorship initiatives across Cache Valley.
“Part of our mission is to make live theatre accessible to everyone,” said Moore. “That includes rural families, students, and those who may be seeing live performance for the first time.”
The company plans to use a portion of the funding to strengthen its Theatre for Youth program, which brings age-appropriate performances and theatre lessons to area schools.
The Lyric will also introduce a new initiative, “Stage 60,” designed to celebrate six decades of theatre in Logan. The program will feature special performances, alumni panels, and a behind-the-scenes exhibit showcasing the evolution of the company since its founding.
Community leaders and arts advocates say the Lyric’s success reflects broader efforts to preserve local culture while adapting to changing audience expectations.
“The Lyric is a treasure,” said Cache County Councilmember Tina Larson. “It reminds us that art and storytelling are essential to our shared identity. These grants ensure that tradition continues for generations.”
Looking Toward the 60th Anniversary Season
Preparations for the 2026 season are already underway, with auditions expected to begin in early 2025. The company is also seeking additional sponsorships and donations to enhance its programming and expand seating accessibility at the Caine Lyric Theatre.
Moore hinted that the anniversary lineup will pay tribute to the company’s early years, blending nostalgia with innovation. “We’ll celebrate our history while looking forward,” she said. “The goal is to make the 60th season our most ambitious and inclusive yet.”
The Lyric Repertory Company will release its 2026 schedule in spring 2025. Season passes and donor packages are expected to go on sale through CacheArts later this year.
For updates on productions, ticket sales, and anniversary events, patrons can visit the Lyric Repertory Company page on the Utah State University website.
Conclusion
With new grants revitalizing its finances, the Lyric Repertory Company is entering its 60th anniversary on solid ground. The funding will not only strengthen its upcoming season but also ensure that this cornerstone of Utah’s performing arts community continues to inspire, educate, and entertain audiences well into the future.
As Logan prepares to celebrate six decades of theatrical excellence, the Lyric stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when art, education, and community come together on one stage.
