Fort Worth theater company Amphibian Stage has new plays and new leadership on tap for the New Year, but audiences can also expect the return of its new-play festival, stand-up comedy residencies, National Theatre Live screenings, and other special events.

After 25 years as founding artistic director, Kathleen Culebro passed the torch to Jay Duffer, formerly the co-artistic director. It was announced in October that Elizabeth Kensek is joining Amphibian Stage as managing director, after abruptly being let go from Addison's WaterTower Theater two months earlier.

Both Duffer's and Kensek's roles go into effect on January 1, 2025. Kensek will work closely with Duffer and the board of directors to guide the organization’s future.

"The 2025 season at Amphibian Stage reveals characters embracing the unexpected to seek connection — whether in close quarters, across ideological divides, or in unfamiliar lands — as they strive for common ground amidst challenges and surprises," reads a release.

The mainstage season opens with Rooted, a quirky comedy by Deborah Zoe Laufer that's directed by Scott Evans.

Who knew a love for plants could grow ... a cult following? Emery’s devotion to her plants takes an unexpected turn when a mass of unwanted fans gather outside her treehouse, convinced she’s their new savior. Now she’s dodging her sister Hazel’s big dreams of cashing in, while her followers worship every leaf she drops. It runs January 31-February 16, 2025.

In Rift, or White Lies, Gabriel Jason Dean tackles family and ideology in a powerful drama about two estranged brothers — one a writer, the other an imprisoned alt-right gang member — struggling to confront their pasts.

Directed by Lily Wolff, this production is part of the National New Play Network's Rolling World Premiere. In a unique twist, the actors will switch roles throughout the run, offering audiences a distinct perspective each time. It runs April 18-May 11, 2025.

The summer brings The Heart Sellers by Lloyd Suh and directed by Shyama Nithiananda.

This heartfelt comedy follows Jane and Luna, recent immigrants who find solace in their shared experiences on Thanksgiving night, blending humor with a deep look at friendship and the immigrant experience. It runs August 1-17, 2025.

The season concludes with The Birds, a suspenseful adaptation by Conor McPherson based on Daphne du Maurier’s classic short story, which was the inspiration for Hitchcock’s film.

When killer birds start attacking, three strangers seek shelter in an isolated cabin, but as paranoia and fear begin to grow they realize that the biggest threat might come from within. Directed by artistic director Jay Duffer, it runs October 17-November 9, 2025.

SparkFest, Amphibian Stage’s annual festival supporting the creation of new work and serving as a platform for underrepresented voices, this year celebrates Native Americans and peoples indigenous to Turtle Island (or the North American continent) and Hawai'i.

The arrival of SparkFest 2025 commemorates the fifth anniversary of the festival and the third year the festival will highlight a specific group of artists. The national acting competition, inspired by the Van Cliburn Festival, will offer Native American and Indigenous actors a chance to compete for $18,000 in cash prizes. It all happens June 13-22, 2025.

National Theatre Live brings the best of UK theater here to Fort Worth, thanks to Amphibian Stage's partnership with London’s National Theatre. From Andrew Scott to Emma D’Arcy, audiences will see stars in some of the greatest productions from the UK, screened at The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The Importance of Being Earnest will screen February 26 and March 1, 2025, and Dr. Strangelove May 21 and 24, 2025.

Throughout the year, Amphibian Stage also offers additional events including stand-up comedy residencies, solo shows, cabaret performances, and more. More information about these programs will become available throughout the year.