Things to Do , Arts & Culture , Music, Film & Theater
NEPA Takes the Stage as Live, Local Theater Season Heats Up
Posted: November 17, 2021
Dramatic Plays, Raucous Musicals, Old Favorites and All That Jazz Abound Throughout NEPA's Local Live Theater Scene
There is nothing quite like sitting in a dark room full of strangers, bonding over a piece of art unfolding right before your eyes. No editing, no second takes…it is an experience that can only be had at the theater. For a moment, it seemed like theater-going might become a thing of the past. But, as long as artists continue to create and audiences continue to want more, the show will always go on.
Whether you’re looking for something serious or lighthearted, an old favorite or a new, innovative piece, there are plenty of shows to see and just as many theaters to visit. Now, as marquees flicker on, house lights go down and curtains rise, theater is alive and better than ever.
Luckily, NEPA has enough theaters to entertain audiences year-round. For Broadway super fans, the Broadway Theatre of Northeastern Pennsylvania features Tony-winning touring productions throughout their season. Scranton’s Diva Theater gives a platform to local playwrights and artists. KISS Theatre helps kids find their inner star. And those are just a few of this area’s iconic performance spaces. Check out this list of local theaters and start planning your next night on the town.
Live theater in NEPA:
-
Act Out Theatre Group
Dunmore, PA
At Act Out, theatre is all about inclusivity and creativity. The workshop-based Dunmore company focuses on spreading these values throughout the community with fun performances for the whole family. Check out A Very Merry Dragmas to see what we mean.
-
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble
Bloomsburg, PA
The Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble is a nationally recognized group of professional performers. With a home at the Alvina Krause Theatre, BTE is a Bloomsburg staple. Between improv shows and full productions, the ensemble stays busy year-round. See a performance for yourself at this season’s Merry Christmas, George Bailey.
-
Broadway Theatre of Northeastern Pennsylvania
Scranton, PA
No need to worry about New York City traffic when the Broadway Theatre of Northeastern Pennsylvania brings Broadway’s best right to you. Catch the shows everyone has been buzzing about in the heart of Downtown Scranton, including award-winning Waitress.
-
Diva Theater
Scranton, PA
For nearly 25 years, the Diva Theater has been producing original plays by local playwrights. The nonprofit focuses on creating a platform for up-and-coming artists. Catch Triple Threat: Three Original Plays by Three Local Playwrights to see what the Diva Theater is all about.
-
Dorothy Dickson Darte Center
Wilkes-Barre, PA
Become an honorary Colonel at Wilkes University’s Dorothy Dickson Darte Center. Home to the university’s theatre department, performances are produced by and star rising masters of their craft.
-
Gaslight Theatre Company
Wilkes-Barre, PA
For nearly two decades, Gaslight Theatre Company has been bringing innovation to the stage. From Shakespeare to local playwrights, nothing as off limits. Be sure to check out their most recent virtual production: Bye Pal, a scripted podcast series.
-
George P. Maffei II Theatre at King's College
Wilkes-Barre, PA
You won’t want to miss a single performance by the King’s College players at the George P. Maffei II Theatre. With a variety of shows, including a fall musical and an annual Shakespeare production, audiences are always in for a treat. You can even catch a performance this weekend of She Loves You.
-
KISS Theatre Company
Wilkes-Barre, PA
Future stars are born at KISS Theatre. This nonprofit performing arts organization is dedicated to cultivating an appreciation of theatre, music and dance in NEPA’s youth. Keep an eye out for their can’t miss production, including Frozen.
-
Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre
Wilkes-Barre, PA
With almost 100 years in the books, it is easy to see why Little Theatre is considered a Wilkes-Barre landmark. Hundreds of performers and productions have graced the stage and brought joy to generations of audiences. Count yourself among them if you haven’t already and catch A Christmas Carol this December.
-
Majestic Theater
Pottsville, PA
From local performers to big name celebrities, incredible talent has taken to the Majestic Theater stage for over a century. On top of entertaining, this theater is dedicated to educating and culturally enriching the community. Join the Majestic family this holiday season with White Christmas: The Musical.
-
The Milford Theatre
Milford, PA
After transforming from a vaudeville theatre to a movie house, The Milford Theatre has established itself as an iconic entertainment location by combining the two. It is one of the few places you can catch live plays and musicals one weekend and a screening of your favorite film the next.
-
Music Box Dinner Playhouse
Swoyersville, PA
It doesn’t get much better than dinner and a show. At the Music Box Dinner Playhouse, audiences are treated to both. This year, the Music Box celebrates its 40th season of entertaining the community. Get in on the fun with their upcoming production of Nuncrackers.
-
Pennsylvania Theatre of Performing Arts
Hazleton, PA
From professional productions to local children’s performances, the Pennsylvania Theatre of Performing arts truly has something for everyone. Workshops and programs are also available for those looking to become involved in the arts themselves.
-
Ritz Company Playhouse
Hawley, PA
Doubling as both a movie and vaudeville theater, the Ritz Company Playhouse always provides the entertainment. The theater puts on live performances from June through September, with holiday concerts throughout the year.
-
The Ritz Theater
Scranton, PA
This iconic theater is a Scranton landmark and for good reason. The Ritz has hosted renowned musicals and plays for over 100 years. It is also home to the Creative and Performing Arts Academy of NEPA. Don’t miss The Ritz’s upcoming performances of Broadway classic Annie throughout December.
-
Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple
Scranton, PA
Originally built as a Masonic Temple in 1930, the Scranton Cultural Center is not just a prime performance space, but a historic location. With two theaters just as beautiful as the building’s exterior, you don’t want to miss the chance to see a performance at this
-
Sette LaVerghetta Center for Performing Arts
Scranton, PA
Marywood University’s Sette LaVerghetta Center is home to both a 1,000-seat theater and an intimate black box theater. These dual settings allow a diverse selection of productions to take place under one roof.
-
Shawnee Playhouse
Shawnee on Delaware, PA
Entertainment and history collide at the Shawnee Playhouse. With more than 115 years on record, this theater is proof that the Poconos have always loved the arts. Shawnee will bring 2021 to a close with ELF: The Musical this November through December.
-
The Theater at North
Scranton, PA
With a beautiful 800-seat theater, The Theater at North is one of Scranton’s premiere live entertainment venues. Frequent events include touring Broadway hits, dance showcases and comedy shows to name a few. Join The Theater at North as they host the Ballet Theatre of Scranton’s production of The Nutcracker.
-
Wiltsie Center
Hazleton, PA
Located in the old Hazleton High School, the Wiltsie Center’s unique location lends itself to unique performances. Shows range from local plays to touring Broadway productions.
Related Articles & Stories
