Theater Is Alive and Thriving in Northeastern Pennsylvania
Theater is alive, vibrant, and flourishing throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. From laugh-out-loud comedies to powerful dramas, energetic musicals, and even classic Shakespeare, audiences in NEPA have a wide variety of theatrical experiences to enjoy close to home. No matter your taste, there is truly something for everyone in the region’s active theater scene.
Today, the spotlight is on non-profit and community theater, which plays a crucial role in keeping the arts accessible and meaningful to local residents. Community theater is defined as local, volunteer-driven theater performed primarily by amateurs for the love of the art rather than for profit. These productions bring together people from all walks of life who contribute their time and talents both onstage and behind the scenes—acting, directing, building sets, sewing costumes, managing lights, and more.
Beyond entertainment, community theater serves as a vital creative outlet, educational platform, and social connection. It offers newcomers a welcoming environment to gain experience while allowing seasoned performers to continue honing their craft. These theaters enrich the cultural life of the community by presenting affordable, high-quality plays and musicals that might otherwise be out of reach for many audiences.
Ticket prices typically range from $10 to $20, with discounts often available for seniors and students, making live theater an accessible and enjoyable option for families and individuals alike. Performances generally run on Friday and Saturday evenings, with Sunday afternoon matinees, allowing flexibility for theatergoers’ schedules.
Below is a list of nine respected community theaters located throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, all known for their dedication, professionalism, and artistic excellence. For information on upcoming productions, auditions, and volunteer opportunities, be sure to visit each theater’s website or Facebook page.
These theaters are members of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Theatrical Alliance (NEPTA), an organization that unites non-profit theater companies across the region. NEPTA works collaboratively to promote local theater, provide scholarships for students pursuing the arts, and host the annual NEPTA Theatre Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievements in regional theater.
Actors Circle at Providence Playhouse
Established in 1982, Actors Circle is a non-profit community theater organization with a long-standing reputation for quality productions and strong community involvement.
1256 Providence Road Scranton, PA 18508 https://www.facebook.com/actors.circle
Diva Theater
Founded in 1997, DIVA Theater is an award-winning non-profit community theater company and the current resident company of The Olde Brick Theater. Known for bold choices and compelling storytelling, DIVA continues to make a significant impact on NEPA’s arts scene.
126 W. Market Street Scranton, PA https://www.facebook.com/DivaTheaterScranton/
DM Performance Works – Nuremberg
DM Performance Works is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing high-quality theatrical productions to the area, offering audiences engaging performances in an intimate setting.
15 School Street Nuremberg, PA https://www.facebook.com/dmperformanceworks
Endless Mountain Theatre Company
Serving Susquehanna County, Endless Mountain Theatre Company provides community-based theater experiences while fostering creativity and artistic growth in a rural setting.
New Milford, PA emtc@nep.net
EndlessMountainsTheatre.org
Gaslight Theatre Company
Gaslight Theatre Company’s mission is to create impactful, innovative, and high-quality theater. Their productions are known for strong performances and thoughtful storytelling that resonate with audiences.
Wilkes-Barre, PA https://www.gaslight-theatre.org/
Imagine NEPA – Dalton
Imagine NEPA is a children’s theater and community performance space offering classes, workshops, and special events. It plays a vital role in nurturing young performers and encouraging creativity from an early age.
113 Church Street Dalton, PA www.imaginenepa.com
Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre
Celebrating over 100 seasons, the Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre is one of the oldest continuously running community theaters in the region. Its rich history and commitment to excellence make it a cornerstone of NEPA theater.
537 N. Main Street Wilkes-Barre, PA https://www.facebook.com/LittleTheatreWB
Music Box Dinner Playhouse
Founded in 1981, the Music Box Dinner Playhouse is Pennsylvania’s oldest dinner theater, offering audiences a unique experience that combines a delicious buffet with unforgettable live entertainment.
196 Hughes Street Swoyersville, PA https://www.facebook.com/MusicBoxDinnerPlayhouse/
PTPA – Hazleton
“With Broadway to Broad Street!” PTPA Hazleton presents theater by and for the residents of the Greater Hazleton Area, showcasing a wide range of productions that reflect the community it serves.
212 W. Broad Street Hazleton, PA https://www.facebook.com/PTPASHOWS