Modern American drama was born in Provincetown when the Provincetown Players were founded in July, 1915. They are credited with changing American theater forever by birthing the careers of famous playwrights such as Eugene O’Neill and Susan Glaspell, who would eventually relocate to Greenwich Village to found the historic and famous Provincetown Playhouse. These revolutionary artists set the stage for Provincetown to become a hub for talented and innovative theatrical minds. Ever since, Provincetown has been an incubator for brilliant theatrical characters, many of whom would go on to become well-known on an international stage.
Provincetown Theaters
Modern-day theater in Provincetown is led by its two professional theater companies: the Provincetown Theater and the Peregrine Theater. The Provincetown Theater was originally founded in 1963 and since then has changed names and locations multiple times before arriving at its current location at 238 Bradford Street. Artistic Director and Obie Award winner David Drake leads the production of the major shows, hosts a 4-star solo show festival, and several mini productions throughout the year.
Peregrine Theater’s executive director, Adam Berry, has high hopes for his theater. Named after Peregrine White, the first child born to the Pilgrims in the New World while the Mayflower was anchored in Provincetown Harbor. Our company spirit embodies that same adventure and passion of braving uncharted possibilities. Peregrine Theatre Ensemble is a professional performing arts company aiming to continue the tradition of quality theatre that has enriched the unique culture of Provincetown for decades. They strive to create a collaborative educational environment for their professional student actors, production members and musicians to explore and develop their craft. Berry states “we want theater to be back in the forefront of P’town. It’s the birthplace of American theater.”
Performance Art in Provincetown
Performance art in Provincetown is not limited to these two establishments.
The Art House has a Broadway summer season that is chock-full of well-known performers.
Crown and Anchor is not only one of Ptown’s most prominent facades, with its grand columned portico and tower, but performers from the Cabaret—usually in drag—boisterously regale passers-by. The Crown & Anchor is dedicated to supporting the community, celebrating queer arts, and elevating the LGTBTQ+ tourism experience.
The Pilgrim House brings talented performers, often in Drag, to the center of Provincetown each season.
Each of these establishments has an enriching summer season that brings shockingly impressive talent usually found in a big city than in a beautiful beach town. In Provincetown, you have the opportunity to experience both.
