Theatre Under the Stars, Priscilla Beach Theatre, Priscilla Beach, Manomet, Plymouth, Massachusetts, USA

Okay, so not directly under the stars, but outside under two large tents qualifies as under the stars in my mind.  This outdoor stage, one of three venues in the Priscilla Beach Theatre complex, is normally the site of the summer children's workshops.  This summer it serves double duty  for both this adult performance and also the regular children's shows while the barn theatre is undergoing renovation.

This was an evening performance of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" held under the tents at Priscilla Beach Theatre. It is such a pleasure to be outdoors on a beautiful summer evening in New England and see and hear live theatre - especially when performed by talented actors, musicians, and support crew. Priscilla Beach Theatre, dating back to 1937, is the oldest barn theatre still operating in the United States although many newer barn venues still dot the American landscape.

This tandem tent arrangement can accommodate 85 guests. The adjacent indoor black box theatre can seat 60 and the barn will seat 200 when it is reopened next summer.

And it's mighty convenient to the parking lot for Americans who don't like to be too far from their automobiles!

If you're thinking that because this venue is outdoors under a tent that it might be amateurish - you'd be wrong - they have a high tech professional lighting system, individual wireless microphones on each actor/actress and the associated quality sound system, a live 5-person band for music support, and all the other amenities you'd expect at a quality theatrical venue. It is a great scene.

Under the new ownership of Bob and Sandy Malone, Priscilla Beach Theatre offers a wide range of performances from children's workshops to adult casts in any of the three venues that make up their campus. As a great example of "pay it forward," Bob was a child summer actor and helper here back in the 1970's. His and Sandy's ownership have injected new life (and money) back into the theatre.  Put Priscilla Beach Theatre on your calendar and help support local live theatre in our community. The phone is 508-224-4888 for info or reservations.