The Barnstormers Theatre facts for kids
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| Address | 104 Main Street Tamworth, New Hampshire U.S. |
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| Coordinates | 43°51′35″N 71°15′56″W / 43.85972°N 71.26556°W |
| Capacity | 282 |
| Opened | Group: 1931 Building: 1936 |
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N.H. State Register of Historic Places
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| Designated: | May 12, 2025 |
The Barnstormers Theatre is a very special place in Tamworth, New Hampshire. It is the oldest professional summer theatre in the United States that is still running! Imagine a theater that has been putting on shows every summer since 1931. It was co-founded by Francis Cleveland, whose dad was President Grover Cleveland. This theater is famous for putting on eight different plays in eight weeks, all summer long.
Contents
A Look Back: The Barnstormers' Story
How It All Began
The Barnstormers Theatre started in 1931. It was created by Francis Cleveland, his wife Alice, and their friend Ed Goodnow. In the early days, they had a group of actors who traveled around the area. They would perform different plays almost every night. Sometimes, they would literally "storm barns." This meant they would arrive at a barn in the afternoon. Then, they would quickly set up their stage, scenery, and lights. By evening, they were ready for a show!
Finding a Permanent Home
In 1935, the acting group bought Kimball's Store. This building was on Main Street, right across from the Tamworth Inn. They worked hard to turn the store into a proper theater. By the summer of 1936, it was ready! Since then, the theater has kept a very busy schedule. From late June to early September, the actors rehearse one play during the day. Then, they perform a different play at night! Francis Cleveland was the main director for the theater until he passed away in 1995.
Modern Updates and Celebrations
The Barnstormers Theatre got a big makeover in 1998. It was improved with new features. Now, it can seat 282 people comfortably. It also has heating and air conditioning. This means shows can be enjoyed no matter the weather! Besides their own summer plays, the theater also hosts other touring shows. Many of the plays performed at The Barnstormers are fun comedies. They also put on exciting murder mysteries and popular musicals. These shows often come from British and American stages. In 2006, The Barnstormers celebrated a huge milestone: their 75th anniversary!
A Historic Landmark
The Barnstormers Theatre building is very important. In May 2025, it was officially added to the New Hampshire State Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as a special historical building in New Hampshire.
More to Explore
- New Hampshire Historical Marker No. 90: This marker tells about the First Summer Playhouse.
