Barnstormers Theatre facts for kids
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| Address | Tamworth, New Hampshire United States of America |
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| Capacity | 282 |
| Opened | 1931 |
The Barnstormers Theatre is a special place in Tamworth, New Hampshire. It's the oldest professional summer theater in the United States that's still running! It started in 1931. A man named Francis Cleveland founded it. His father was Grover Cleveland, who was the 22nd President of the United States. This theater is unique because it puts on eight different plays in eight weeks every summer.
How the Theater Began
In 1931, Francis Cleveland and his wife, Alice, started the theater company. Their friend, Ed Goodnow, also helped. During the summer, they traveled around the area with their actors. They performed different plays almost every night.
Sometimes, they would literally "storm barns." This means they would arrive at a barn in the afternoon. They would quickly set up their stage, scenery, and lights. Then, they would perform a play that very evening!
After World War II, the acting group bought a building. It was Kimball's Store on Main Street. They changed this building into a proper theater.
Since then, the actors at the theater have kept a very busy schedule. They practice one play during the day. Then, they perform a different play at night! This busy schedule runs from late June to early September. Francis Cleveland was the main director until he passed away in 1995.
Modern Updates and Shows
In 1998, The Barnstormers Theatre got some big updates. It was "winterized," which means it was made ready for cold weather. Now, it has heating and air conditioning. This allows shows to happen all year round.
The theater can now seat 282 people. Besides the summer plays, it also hosts other touring shows. Many of The Barnstormers' performances are classic comedies. They also put on exciting murder mysteries and fun musicals. These shows come from both British and American stages. In 2006, The Barnstormers celebrated its 75th birthday!
See also
- New Hampshire Historical Marker No. 90: First Summer Playhouse
