We 'Ain't Down Yet!' Riverland Theatre presents 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown'

Release Date: April 20, 2026

Riverland Theatre invites audiences to experience the bold, spirited journey of one of America’s most legendary figures in The Unsinkable Molly Brown, with music and lyrics by Meredith Willson and a revised book by Dick Scanlan.

This rags-to-riches love story follows Margaret “Molly” Tobin Brown and her husband, James Joseph “J.J.” Brown, as they rise from humble beginnings in Leadville, Colorado to extraordinary wealth at the turn of the twentieth century. But Molly is far more than a social climber. She is vibrant, progressive, and determined to fight for the underdog, championing women’s rights, labor rights, and immigration reform.

As Molly takes on Denver high society, stands in solidarity with miners, travels across Europe, and famously survives the Titanic, she proves that true worth isn’t measured by wealth, but by character. Full of humor, heart, and an irrepressible spirit, this uniquely American musical celebrates resilience, compassion, and the power of “sharing the luck.”

The production is directed by Meagan Morrow, with music direction by Brian Johnson. Scenic, lighting, and sound design are by John Deyo, costumes are designed by guest designer Elizabeth Banks Wertz, choreographers are Rebecca Couch and Renae Clark and Mollie Johnson serves as Stage Manager.

The Unsinkable Molly Brown stars Jannel Howard as the indomitable Molly Brown and Antonio Morales as J.J. Brown. The ensemble features Caden Strampe, Delanie Wanek, Diane Petrik, Emma Brekke, Hannah Zerke, Kalli Potter, Kim Potter, Lucas Johnson, Maggie Bremner, Martha Liskey, McKenna Barren, Molly Robins, Olivia Mix, Ryan Flanders, Tehya Orr, Tony Palesotti, and Yo Na.

The Unsinkable Molly Brown reminds us that resilience, generosity, and a willingness to stand up for others are timeless qualities,” said director Morrow. “This version of Molly feels bold, compassionate, and unapologetically herself. It’s been a joy to explore her story with this incredible group of artists.”

The Unsinkable Molly Brown will be performed April 22-25 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 2 p.m. in the Frank W. Bridges Theatre on Riverland’s Austin Campus.

Individual tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets are available online at www.riverland.edu/tickets 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The online ticketing system accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. The on-campus box office will open in the theatre lobby one hour prior to each performance. Riverland students receive two free tickets with a valid student ID.

For more information, contact the box office at 507-433-0595 or email boxoffice@riverland.edu.

Riverland Theatre strives to provide quality productions that are entertaining and challenging to both the audience and the artists.  Because we reach such a diverse audience, some audience members may find some subject matter, language, or situations objectionable. If you have concerns about a specific production, we encourage you to become familiar with the material before attending the performance.

Riverland’s Theatre Department is a high-energy performance-oriented program. Plays produced vary from classical tragedy to modern comedy and from full-scale large cast musicals in intimate small cast plays. Students are encouraged to get involved in all areas of theatre production including, but not limited to, acting, stage managing, set building and painting. Strong academic offerings provide challenges in and out of the classroom.