From it’s vaudeville beginnings in the 1920s to what you see today, the story of the Wayne Theatre in Waynesboro, Virginia includes both triumph and tragedy. From its auditorium, theatergoers have witnessed orchestra-backed productions, heard their first “talking” pictures, and have been entertained by nationally-known musicians. For a time, however, the Wayne was void of any kind of performance or entertainment. Thankfully, a dedicated community crafted its re-birth. In 2016 the performing arts center was born, offering all it once did and more.
The Wayne Theatre is more than a venue; it’s a creative space for young and old alike to polish their acting skills and hone their artistic abilities in stagecraft, costuming, and props. The in-house Studio Wayne arts education program is raising future generations of Shenandoah Valley entertainers, and their shows demonstrate the strength and passion of the adults behind them. As proof, be sure to catch Disney’s Newsies, JR in November.
Coming up at The Wayne …
Live, Laugh, Loathe
This season’s production line-up promises to deliver all the emotions with comedy, romance, and plenty of drama.
On Sale Now
Over two weekends in October, Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery is the classic “whodunit” with plenty of comedic value. You’re sure to get a great belly laugh or two in as five actors play more than 40 characters in this portrayal of “The Hound of the Baskervilles.”
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, you’re not alone. Ensure you get some version of that by snagging tix for Irving Berlin’s White Christmas this December. There are eight showings to plan a trip around; don’t miss out!
Save the Date
Ticket sales have not yet been released for 2025, but we know what’s on the schedule. Fitting for February, William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet is scheduled. In April, you’ll want to get a seat for Jonathan Larson’s Rent, the rock musical that became one of the longest-running shows on Broadway.
Live Music
What’s your genre? There’s a little bit of everything slated for the stage at Wayne Theatre. Find your flavor and book your tickets for a night out on the town in Waynesboro.
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- September 14 – Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles”
- September 26 – Rancho Aparte – chirimía
- September 27 – Kristina Koller – jazz
- September 28 – Marshall Charloff: Purple Piano: The One Man Tribute to Prince
- October 8 – Nu-Blu – bluegrass
- October 11 – Scott Miller – roots rock
- October 22 – Nobuntu – a cappella Zimbabwean with Afro Jazz and Gospel
- October 23 – The Carole King and James Taylor Story
- November 1 – Dan Gabel & His Orchestra featuring Kimberly Hawkey – big band
- November 6 – U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors – jazz
- November 12 – Phat Cat Swinger – jazz rockabilly
- November 15 – The Everly Set: A Celebration of The Everly Brothers
- November 22 – Robert Jospé Quartet – instrumental jazz, rock, pop, and Latin
- December 9 – Storm Large – rock and jazz
Films
Lest we forget the “talking” pictures, yes! Movies are still shown at Wayne Theatre and they lean toward the classics. Catch Jimmy Stewart, Humphrey Bogart, Steve McQueen, and other icons of old Hollywood on the big screen in Waynesboro, Virginia. Get the full schedule of flix at WayneTheatre.org/Movies.