BARNSTORMERS THEATER

About the Theatre

The Barnstormers is the oldest continuously operating community theatre in the state of Pennsylvania and the third oldest continuously operating community theatre in the United States.

Before The Barnstormers organization was created there was a loosely formed group that produced skits, musical, and minstrel shows for their own amusement and diversion. Their activities were originally held on the second floor in Ward's Hall on Hinckley Avenue at Sellers Avenue. This was the only place in the Borough where dancing and public functions could be held. Their first performance was The Arabian Nights presented on January 22, 1909. Production in those days was not always a full two or three-act play. On May 13, 1910, the first public performance was held, previous performances being limited to club members only. The stage of the playhouse originally had no wings, entrances, or exits. Rugs would be hung as backdrops and lace curtains used to represent windows. Rehearsals were held in private homes.

The Barnstormers currently produces up to six plays a year, with the season running from September until May. No longer limited to the local community, The Barnstormers has participating directors, cast, crew, and volunteers from all parts of the tri-state area. In November 2004, The Barnstormers added two Singer-songwriter Nights, bringing the best regional performer's music to the stage in Ridley Park.  The Barnstormers also have a rich history of winning both State, Regional and International Play competitions.

Legally Blonde Jr.

3/13 - 3/21/2026

Legally Blonde Jr.  takes the stage at the Barnstormers Theater this March! Based on the hit Broadway musical and film, this high-energy production follows the ...

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Photos: RIDE THE CYCLONE at The Barnstormers Theater

by Stephi Wild - October 24, 2025

The Barnstormers Theater invites audiences to take a hauntingly hilarious ride with their October/November production, Ride the Cyclone. Check out photos here!...

The Barnstormers Theater Reveals Cast For RIDE THE CYCLONE

by Stephi Wild - September 29, 2025

The Barnstormers Theater has announced the cast of the highly anticipated cult-favorite musical Ride The Cyclone, with book, music, and lyrics by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell. ...

LEGALLY BLONDE JR and More Set for The Barnstormers Theater 2025/26 Season

by Chloe Rabinowitz - September 11, 2025

The Barnstormers Theater has revealed its 2025/2026 season, filled with musicals, comedies, mysteries, and special events that will entertain audiences of all ages....

Past Shows

The Odd Couple

12/4 - 12/13/2025

Neil Simon’s classic comedy  The Odd Couple  comes to the Barnstormers Theater this December! When fastidious neat freak Felix Ungar finds himself newly single, he ...

Ride The Cyclone

10/24 - 11/1/2025

Step right up for  Ride the Cyclone , a darkly funny, heartfelt, and unforgettable musical coming to the Barnstormers Theater of Ridley Park! After a ...