Young boy watching intently at a theater show.
Live theater enthusiasts will find no shortage of quality entertainment options in The Last Frontier. From performing arts centers to theater companies that have been putting on productions for the community for decades, Alaska's theater landscape is vast and diverse. The following are just the best live theater options Alaska has to offer.
Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, Anchorage, AK
This Anchorage landmark has been bringing people together for the purpose of seeing good theater for over a quarter of a century. You'll see everything from national acts to performances by talented local groups here.
Cyrano’s Theatre Company, Anchorage, AK
Consistently voted the best live theatre in Anchorage, Cyrano's Theatre Company thrills audiences with everything from classic Shakespeare to original plays. Everyone involved is a resident of Alaska, and it's been a goal of this nonprofit theatre group to nurture talented artists since 1995.
Perseverance Theatre, Douglas, AK
Founded in 1979, Juneau's Perseverance Theatre is Alaska's largest professional theatre. Although Perseverance Theatre puts on plays of all kinds, its primary focus is plays celebrating Alaskan culture and themes.
Valley Performing Arts, Wasilla, AK
Organized by volunteers dedicated to bringing quality theatre to Alaska's Matanuska Valley, Valley Performing Arts has been entertaining audiences since 1976. Valley Performing Arts also summer programs in theatre arts for local youth from seven through 17.
Hap Ryder Riverfront Theatre, Fairbanks, AK
Founded in 1963 as a children’s' theatre and named after one of the original players, Fairbanks locals just call it The Riverfront Theatre. The all-volunteer Fairbanks Drama Association puts on six productions each year and hosts a theatre training program for children and young people during summer.
Pier One Theatre, Homer, AK
Surrounded by water on three sides with mountains ringing the horizon, Pier One Theatre audiences are treated to more than just superior performances on stage—the unique surroundings provide step competition. Fortunately, you don't have to choose between them. Simply catch a play and take a stroll on Homer Spit afterward to let the natural beauty sink in.
First City Players, Ketchikan, AK
You'll find twists on classic Shakespeare, experimental theater, and old and new favorites are all found at First City Players in Ketchikan. This theater is famous, however, for the iconic play “The Fish Pirate's Daughter,” which is a musical melodrama combined with interactive dinner theater that transports the audience back to Ketchikan's rowdy frontier days.
Sitka Performing Arts Center, Sitka, AK
Audiences enjoy everything from international performances from world class players to productions produced by local schools at the Sitka Performing Arts Center. With 608 seats, it's one of Alaska's largest regional theaters.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Alaska Center for the Performing Arts in Anchorage has been a cultural hub for over 25 years, hosting national and local performances.
- Cyrano's Theatre Company, also in Anchorage, has been staging everything from Shakespeare to original plays and has featured all-Alaskan talent since 1995.
- Perseverance Theatre in Douglas is Alaska's largest professional theater, known for shows that highlight Alaskan culture. It is also located in Wasilla.
- Valley Performing Arts offers community productions and youth theater programs, run entirely by volunteers since 1976.
- Hap Ryder Riverfront Theatre puts on six shows annually and offers summer youth training through the Fairbanks Drama Association.
- Pier One Theatre in Homer pairs quality productions with a stunning seaside setting on the Homer Spit.
- First City Players in Ketchikan is best known for The Fish Pirate's Daughter, a dinner-theater musical rooted in local history.
- Sitka Performing Arts Center seats over 600 and hosts international and local performances.
