York Little Theatre (Belmont Theatre) | York City

The York Little Theatre, now known as The Belmont Theatre, is one of York, Pennsylvania’s most longstanding and cherished community theaters. Founded in 1933 during the Great Depression, it was established as part of the national “Little Theatre Movement,” which aimed to make theater accessible and foster local artistic talent by creating community-driven performance spaces outside of the commercial Broadway system.

History and Origins

Initially, York Little Theatre did not have a permanent home. For its early years, performances took place in various local venues such as the Women’s Club, the York Collegiate Institute, and the YWCA. Its very first full-length public production was Lady Windermere’s Fan by Oscar Wilde, staged in December 1933 at the Phineas Davis School Auditorium. This early period was marked by resourcefulness and a passion for theater, reflecting the community’s commitment to cultural enrichment despite economic hardships.

By the early 1950s, the group sought a permanent home and in 1953 acquired the Elmwood Theatre, a building originally constructed as a movie cinema in 1949. The Elmwood was transformed into a live performance venue, with the theater officially gaining full ownership in 1956. This allowed York Little Theatre to expand its programming, improve facilities, and become a true hub for performing arts in the area.

In 2016, to better reflect its identity and honor its history, the organization was renamed The Belmont Theatre, referencing its location on Belmont Street and symbolizing a new chapter in its growth while still celebrating decades of community involvement.

Venue and Facilities

The Belmont Theatre occupies a classic mid-20th-century theater building with a stage and seating designed for an intimate audience experience. It features a mainstage theater for larger productions, as well as the Grumbacher Studio, a smaller black-box style space used for more experimental, community, or youth productions. The venue supports a wide range of theatrical styles—from musicals and dramas to comedies and children’s theater.

Programming and Performances

The theater produces an annual season featuring a mix of classic plays, contemporary dramas, musicals, and original works. Past seasons have included beloved titles like Little Women: The Musical, which portrays the lives and struggles of the March sisters during the American Civil War, as well as other classics and community favorites.

Productions often showcase local talent, including volunteer actors, directors, designers, and crew, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The Belmont Theatre is known for its high production values, accessible ticket prices, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Education and Community Engagement

A vital part of The Belmont Theatre’s mission is arts education. Its educational wing, the Belmont Academy, offers year-round classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels. These include theater dance, vocal training, acting techniques, improvisation, and creative dramatics. The academy nurtures the next generation of performers and theater enthusiasts, providing a supportive environment for artistic growth.

Beyond education, The Belmont Theatre is deeply connected to the York community. It is known for long-standing fundraising efforts, including operating the Italian Steak Sandwich Stand at the York Fair since 1958—a beloved local tradition that supports the theater’s mission financially.

Community Impact

The Belmont Theatre is more than just a venue; it is a cultural institution that has enriched York for nearly a century. It provides a platform for artistic expression, community gathering, and cultural dialogue. Its volunteer-driven model creates opportunities for involvement across all ages and backgrounds, fostering community pride and artistic appreciation.

Location and Contact

Address: 27 S. Belmont Street, York, PA 17403

Box Office Phone: (717) 854-5715

Administrative Office: (717) 854-3894

Summary

The Belmont Theatre, formerly York Little Theatre, stands as a testament to the enduring power of community theater. From its humble beginnings during the 1930s to its current role as a thriving cultural landmark, it continues to bring professional-quality performances, educational opportunities, and a strong sense of community spirit to York and the surrounding region.