When you think of Philadelphia, cheesesteaks and crazy football fans may come to mind. But Philly has a thriving arts and culture scene that often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. Philly’s theater community is flourishing, and Philly Theatre Week is the perfect opportunity to experience it.
“We were looking for another event that would really shine a light on the great theatre community here,” explains Executive Director of Theatre Philadelphia Leigh Goldenberg. “And Philadelphia loves their weeks. We have restaurant week and tech week, and I thought why doesn’t theater have a week?”
The third annual Philly Theatre Week, put on by the nonprofit Theatre Philadelphia, is set to take place from Feb. 6 to Feb. 16, and will feature over 300 events—from performances to panels and workshops—all at discounted prices. It gives attendees the chance to explore Philly’s theater scene in new ways—and Theatre Philadelphia is making sure to include everyone in the fun.
“So really we wanted to have a way to show the vibrant and diverse theatre community here and do it in a really inclusive and non-competitive way," Goldenberg explains.
"Knowing that there are things happening in all neighborhoods at reduced price points means that people who are interested in theater might find something to do and try something out at a time when they might not otherwise."
Diversity and inclusivity are certainly showcased in this ten–day celebration. There will be events in Center City, Bucks County, North Philly, South Philly, West Philly, and more. Plus, there are a plethora of free events, and those that aren’t free are either $15 or $30.
The diversity in types of artistic expression is also noteworthy. The program includes LGBTQ+ productions, Black History Month–related events, family–friendly events, and more.
“There is truly something for everyone, from every walk of life, and from every corner of the region," Goldenberg says.
Goldenberg has been active in the Philly theater scene since childhood, and she makes it clear that performance is a necessary medium of expression, especially in an era when personal connections between people are lacking.
“In this day and age when so much of our interactions happen on screens … the fact that theater has to exist, like people coming together in space, I think is really necessary," she says. "There’s just something about that energy exchange happening in a room that can’t be replaced.”
Philly Theatre Week is a great chance to get out of the house and be part of artistic exchange in the Philadelphia community. You can explore the city through its art and culture and get acquainted with it in a new way.
“Don’t be intimidated," Goldenberg advises. "This is for anybody."
"Just go, and you are welcome in these spaces! Use this as an opportunity to go discover something new that you might not have done otherwise.”
You can purchase tickets here.
