Walnut Street Theatre

The Walnut Street Theatre, located at 825 Walnut Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is renowned for being America's oldest theatre, having been founded in 1808. This historic institution is not only the Official State Theatre of Pennsylvania but also holds the designation of a National Historic Landmark, reflecting its significant contribution to the cultural and architectural heritage of the nation. Throughout its storied history, the Walnut Street Theatre has presented a wide range of productions, contributing to the vibrant theatrical scene in Philadelphia. The theatre's production history includes an array of shows performed on its Mainstage and in the more intimate Independence Studio on 3, showcasing the theatre's commitment to both large-scale productions and smaller, more experimental works. The 2023-24 Mainstage season highlights the theatre's diverse programming with shows such as "ELVIS A Musical Revolution," Disney’s "BEAUTY AND THE BEAST," and Charles Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol." These productions exemplify the theatre's dedication to offering a blend of classic tales and modern musicals to its audiences. In addition to its theatrical productions, the Walnut Street Theatre is deeply invested in education and community outreach. Its educational initiatives include the Theatre School, Camp Walnut, Touring Outreach, Residency Program, and the Adopt-A-School program. The theatre also offers professional apprenticeships and a Theatre For Kids Series, further demonstrating its commitment to nurturing the next generation of theatre artists and enthusiasts. The Walnut Street Theatre emphasizes equity, diversity, and inclusivity, striving to create a welcoming environment for artists and audiences alike. The staff and board work together to ensure that these values are reflected in every aspect of the theatre's operations. Support for the Walnut Street Theatre comes from a variety of sources, including individual donations, corporate sponsorships, and special events such as the Annual Gala and Fall Fundraiser. The theatre also encourages community involvement through its "Get Involved" initiative and has an ongoing Expansion Project aimed at enhancing its facilities and services. For those interested in visiting the theatre, the Walnut Street Theatre offers a range of visitor services, including a box office for ticket purchases, information on current subscribers, directions and parking, dining options, theatre seating details, accessibility information, and frequently asked questions. Special events and refreshments are available to enhance the theatre-going experience, and patrons can take home a piece of the theatre with items from the Theatre Gift Shop. As a testament to its enduring legacy, the Walnut Street Theatre continues to adapt and thrive, ensuring that "The Future Lives Here" is not just a slogan, but a promise of ongoing excellence and innovation in the performing arts.