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.
by Scott Serio - May 29, 2026
In what has become a much-anticipated event to close each season, the Philadelphia Ballet returned to Board Chairman David F. Hoffman’s lovely Red Rose Farm for the seventh time in a celebration of dance and volunteers, and a chance for benefactors to enjoy fabulous dance in a pastoral setting and...
by Marakay Rogers - May 03, 2026
Tony nominee Elizabeth Davis takes on Liz Taylor’s role as Maggie the Cat and proves to have her own claws...
by Sebastian Cherry - April 30, 2026
I knew Mandy Gonzalez could sing, even belt, but I was unprepared for the power house she truly is. Mixing elements from her own life, insight on Lin-Manuel Miranda’s background and his influences, the Philly Pops with conductor Chris Dragon, special guest José Mendez, humour, great music, and am...
by Scott Serio - December 07, 2025
Philadelphia Ballet's Holiday Staple The Nutcracker Returns to the Academy of Music in Center City Through New Year's Eve....
Past Shows
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 fabulous...
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 moves in...
Step right up for Ride the Cyclone, a darkly funny, heartfelt, and unforgettable musical coming to the Barnstormers Theater of Ridley Park! After a tragic roller...
Videos
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Seussical Muhlenberg Theatre & Dance (6/12-6/27) |
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Walnut Street Theatre''s THE ADDAMS FAMILY: The Musical Walnut Street Theatre (9/22-11/01) |
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Toto, Christopher Cross & The Romantics TD Pavilion (7/26-7/26) |
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Real Women Have Curves Bristol Riverside Theatre (5/26-6/14) |
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512: The Selena Experience Bristol Riverside Theatre (8/05-8/09) |
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A Christmas Story: The Play Bristol Riverside Theatre (12/01-1/03) |
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Magic Show - Jason Bishop: Straight Up Magic | Camelback Resort, June 2026 309 Resort Dr (6/20-6/20) |
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Sheila the Magical Labuda Center for the Performing Arts (7/03-8/01) |
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Home, I'm Darling by Laura Wade Langhorne Players (Spring Garden Mill) (7/10-7/26) |
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Gino Mozzarella June 19th & 20th 2026 - 8PM Smoke & Mirrors Theater in House of Magic (6/19-6/20) |
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