History

Artwork by Tina White

About The Summit Playhouse
The Summit Playhouse is one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in the United States. Founded in 1918 as a World War I relief organization, we’ve staged over 300 productions and continue to thrive as a vibrant hub for local talent and theater lovers.
Each season, we produce three Main Stage plays -- in the fall, winter, and spring. Our Kaleidoscope Youth Theatre adds to the magic with Junior productions in December plus two summer musicals that showcase the talents of young performers.
Our commitment to the community goes beyond the stage. We offer benefit performances for local causes, award scholarships to students pursuing theater or music in college, and collaborate with other Summit organizations throughout the year.
The Playhouse is located just off Springfield Avenue in a charming historic building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally built in 1891 as Summit’s first library, the stone structure was transformed into a theater in 1918 and expanded in 1960 with a 120-seat auditorium. It's a living piece of local history and a welcoming space for creativity, learning, and live performance.
Come be part of the story—onstage, backstage, or in the audience.