The word theatre comes from the Greek theatron, which translates roughly to “a place to behold.” Visitors to the Inn & Spa at Intercourse Village have no shortage of places to behold live performance. Current performances range from Broadway shows to original theatrical productions to biblical epics. Choose from large facilities, small intimate community theatres, and venues in between.
There are several local dinner theatre options for those who like to combine dinner and drink with a show, and parents will delight in shows produced especially with children in mind. For those drawn more to history than performing arts, the historic Fulton Theatre—America’s oldest, continuously operating theatre is just the right venue. In short—something for everyone!
Following are highlights of several current-running productions. Check theatre websites for details on tickets, performance schedule, and COVID restrictions.
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre
510 Centerville Road, Lancaster, PA 17601
717-898-1900
Mamma Mia! (Runs through November 6, 2021)
For anyone who enjoys the music of ABBA, Mama Mia! is the perfect night-out production. This musical comedy uses the hit songs of the popular 70s Swedish band to tell the story of a bride-to-be in search of her birth father. Set on a beautiful Greek Island, it’s an enchanting tale of love, family, and friendship. Running time: 2 hours and 30 minutes. Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre seats 328 and offers a selection of dining options, including a full buffet or plated service. Show-only option on Thursdays.
Sight & Sound Theatre
300 Hartman Bridge Rd, Ronks, PA 17572
800-377-1277
Queen Esther (Runs through December 23, 2021)
Queen Esther is a captivating tale of beauty and bravery. Set in the opulent yet perilous Persian Empire, Esther’s life is changed forever when she is taken from her people and enters a world of royalty and risk. Can Esther find the courage to trust in God’s plan? Come find out. Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes. Sight & Sound Theatres uses story, song, professional actors in elaborate costumes, and dramatic staging to bring the Bible to life.
Fulton Theatre
12 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
717-397-7425
Fun Home (Runs through October 24, 2021)
The 2015 Tony Award®-winning “Best Musical” Fun Home is based on the real-life story of cartoonist Alison Bechdel, whose creative imagination becomes real as she recalls how her families’ dysfunctional dynamic upbringing shaped who she is today. Parents take note: Fun Home contains adult language and mature themes. Running time is 1 hour and 40 minutes. The Fulton Theatre is the oldest, continuously operating theatre in the United States. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964, the Fulton combines ornate Victorian architecture grandeur with modern amenities.
Bird-in-Hand Stage
2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, #A, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
717-768-1568
Ryan & Friends: Comedy Calamity Show (Runs through October 16, 2021)
The Best of Me (Runs through October 20, 2021)
The wholesome lighthearted program, Ryan & Friends: Comedy Calamity Show, features multi-talented Christian comedian and ventriloquist Ryan Bomgardner. Ryan and his “dummy” friends combine comedy and song parodies to entertain the whole family. Also being performed at Bird-in-Hand Stage is The Best of Me, a new musical comedy that tells the story of an Amish young woman who steps out of her comfort zone on the farm to go to New York City to see how the other half lives. This 90-minute production offers a lighthearted look at love, life, and knowing who you are. Bird-in-Hand Stage is an intimate 140-seat tiered theatre offering on-site dining and shows with a positive message.
American Music Theatre
2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602
717-397-7700
American Music Theatre is the only theatre in Lancaster County that features both touring concerts and original shows. The 1,600-seat theatre hosts more than 300 live performances a year––including Broadway tours, rock legends, and famous comedians. October performances include Martina McBride, Paul Anka, a tribute to the Beatles, Master Chef Live, and more. See the October show schedule for acts and performance dates.