Taking in the Theater in Philadelphia
No matter your age, style or taste, we highly recommend that you take advantage of Philadelphia’s rich theater scene. This city has a nearly endless supply of musical and theatrical productions. It is highly unlikely that, with such a bountiful schedule of concerts, plays and musicals, that you will be unable to find something that meets your particular interests. Whether you are visiting our fine city, a Philly native, a theater lover or someone who is very skeptical about all things theater related, we recommend you take some time out of your life to experience the best art and entertainment that this city has to offer. Some of you skeptics may even become theater fanatics! Here are some of our favorite places to catch a show!
Suzanne Roberts Theater
The Suzanne Roberts Theatre is a local favorite that offers an intimate and modern setting and plays host to the Philadelphia Theatre Company. Presentations include off-the-beaten-path performances that range from funny and bizarre to dark or heartfelt. The venue offers a sense of peace and comfort that will put you at ease throughout the entire performance. This is the place to go for though-provoking theater in a mellow setting located right in the middle of The Avenue of the Arts.
Wilma Theater
The Wilma Theater is a great spot for lesser-known, independent productions. They staff is welcoming, the theater is comfortable and they have a diverse variety of performances. Due to their fun atmosphere, discounted ticket prices and emphasis on customer service, The Wilma Theater has built up a huge local following. Philly visitors, you don’t want to miss out on this local favorite.
Walnut Street Theater
Walnut Street Theater boasts the title of being “America’s oldest theater,” and is getting ready to celebrate its 206th Anniversary with Philadelphia! It offers a quaint, comfortable and historical atmosphere with a steady schedule of well-known productions. Nestled comfortably in the Washington Square West neighborhood, this theater is perfect for a quiet, low-key evening out. This is a great way to interact with a famous, historical American site. FUN FACT: The Walnut is one of only a few remaining “hemp houses” in the country. This means that they continue to operate the original grid, rope, pulley and sandbag system that was in use two centuries ago.
Forrest Theater
Forrest Theater has an unassuming exterior that, upon entering, quickly gives way to a fantastically adorned theater. They host electrifying, upbeat and even controversial performances that will make you laugh, keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you satisfactorily entertained. Two of The Forrest Theater’s hottest, Tony Award winning, up coming shows of this nature are Kinky Boots, and The Book of Mormon. Their selection of shows adds a welcomed sense of off-the-wall fun to the entire theater experience
Academy of Music
The Academy of Music just oozes class and sophistication. Just being there makes you feel like a million bucks. With red carpets, ornamental furnishings, sparkling chandeliers, balcony seating and spectacular artwork throughout, you can’t help being mesmerized by the astonishing atmosphere. Productions include ballets, Broadway-quality productions and performances by world-renowned musicians. This is one venue that you definitely do not want to miss out on!
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
The Kimmel Center is a gorgeous building with an awe inspiring exterior and a breathtaking interior. Towering over Broad Street with its enormous glass atrium, the building itself seems to invite wonder and excitement. The epitome of high quality entertainment, The Kimmel Center offers performance by orchestras, choruses, operas, dance presentations and even a series of free, family-friendly events. The futuristic glamour of the building itself will lull you into senses of wonderment and the presentations will take you out of this world. Plan you next visit now!
Written by Patrick Kaisinger (Mike McCann Team Blogger Extraordinaire)
