The Delray Playhouse has always been known as a hidden cultural gem. But it’s now a sparkling diamond with rays of theatrical sunshine bursting from all sides.
This Delray historic theater has become well known for its first-rate performances and entertainment prowess. It is still hidden from commercial sight, but its goodness pervades the atmosphere through the ether.
For over 80 years, this independent, self-funded theater has been delighting audiences with first-rate productions, lively concerts, and programs that entertain and inspire.
While many local theaters are finding it hard to sustain themselves through the atmospheric financial clutter, Delray Playhouse is in good stead.
If you ask the Executive Director Kevin Barrett, he’ll tell you why. “The Playhouse is highly successful because of its wealth of volunteers and talented management staff.”
Barrett, who has been at the helm of the playhouse for a decade, admits it took a while. “We built the right team and came out stronger after the pandemic. We also kept our talented staff intact and carefully managed our finances.”
You can tell when you enter the theater, that’s usually filled to capacity, that there’s a creative sparkle in the air. There are also over 250 performances scheduled for 2026.
But not just any shows – ones that are sought after with a larger-than-life legacy.
This year’s first production launches in November with the Tony Award-winning play, The Pajama Game. This legendary Broadway play was choreographed by the legendary Bob Fosse, who has won awards for Best Musical and Best Revival of a Musical.
The Delray Playhouse is not only intimate and historic, but the ticket prices are affordable. Add that to the range of entertainment it offers, and you have what is a coveted creative space that is revered by all.
“We’re all about the shows,” says Executive Director Kevin Bar-rett, “From classics to contemporary favorites, we create productions that speak to our audiences. We do a good job, and judging by the sellouts, our patrons agree.”
Another great musical coming this October is “Tenderly, The Rosemary Clooney Musical.” According to theater lore it’s not a typical juke-box musical. Instead, it offers a ‘fresh, remarkably personal, and poignant picture of the woman whose unparalleled talent and unbridled personality made her a legend.’
Another upcoming highlight is Something Rotten! running from March 20th to April 12th. This laugh-out-loud hit is making its Delray Playhouse debut.
The season continues through May, with tickets already in high demand. Barrett recommends buying early because many productions, like West Side Story, sell out in advance.
The Playhouse also hosts a Best of Broadway Cabaret Series, which includes the beloved Tovah Feldshuh in Tovah Feldshuh: Out Of Her Mind in January. Always: The Love Story of Irving Berlin starring KT Sullivan and Mark Nadler in February, and Let’s Misbehave!
Celebration of Cole Porter starring Laura Yanez in May.
All cabaret performances offer weekday matinees at 2 p.m. and evening shows at 7:30 pm, giving theater goers a chance to enjoy Broadway entertainment in a local intimate setting.
For music lovers, the Playhouse calendar is equally enticing. There are tribute bands for Barry Manilow, Toby Keith, Jimmy Buffett (Changes in Latitude), and a big band to sow off the musical genius of Earth, Wind & Fire.
They also have a Feelin’ Groovy Series, led by Joan Friedenberg and Bill Bowen (of the PinkSlip) that combines live music, storytelling and photographs. They also have CHAI Fidelity: Our Favorite Jewish Songs, A Complete Bob Dylan in February and The Life and Sounds of Simon and Garfunkel in April.
The Playhouse’s famous Lunch Box Matinees are also back with gusto. They sell out quickly, so get your tickets soon. The afternoon includes a box lunch before the show and a professional theater performance.
For younger audiences, their Playhouse Arts Academy inspires young artists to shine. Musical Theatre Kids has hands-on classes in acting, singing and dancing, and is for kids and teens from ages 7 to 16.
This season’s youth musical Finding Nemo will be performed live with budding young talent. It will give young performers the thrill of working in a professional theater. “Our mission is to spark creativity, build confidence, and bring young performers together in a supportive, exciting environment,” adds Barrett.
The Delray Playhouse is also offering an alternative to the typical New Years’ Eve restaurant debacle. To ring in the new year, they’re offering a New Years’ Eve show: A Tribute to Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell. There will be an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and dessert.
This year you might notice there are new red seats at this historic theater. Add that to free parking; wine, beer and snacks, and you have one of Delray’s most inviting cultural and musical nights out.
“Our mission has always been about making high-quality the-ater accessible,” says Barrett. “We’re proud to offer productions at about half the cost of similar performances elsewhere. The value is unmatched.”
Barrett is a pro at creating theatrical performances and understanding what audiences want. He has been in the theater business for 30 years and has produced over 20 Broadway productions in South Florida.
Barrett was General Manager of the Coral Springs Center for the Arts (for 17 years) and produced a successful Broadway Series (in Lauderhill) the past three years. He also created the theater company, Pompano Players at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center (in partnership with the City).
He also attributes his success to having the right people in marketing, sales, backstage and the front of the theater. “I have the best theater crew in all South Florida. Our theater is everyone’s favorite because of them. They are the real magic behind it all, I’m just the magician waving the wand,” adds Barrett, who is known for his strong work ethic and big vision.
For theater lovers, music aficionados, and anyone who craves a night of inspiration and artistry, The Delray Beach Playhouse is a cultural gem. The lights are bright, the talent is outstanding, and the spirit of live performance is magical.
THE DELRAY BEACH PLAYHOUSE
950 NW 9th Street
Delray Beach, FL 33444
Box Office: 561-272-1281
https://delraybeachplayhouse.com/shows-by-month/
Subscriptions and Single Tickets are on sale now.
