From our seats not really a bad seat in the house stage in full view.
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Civic Theatre Allentown

4.8
Β·404 reviewsΒ·Allentown, United States

Historic 19th Street Theatre showcasing musicals, plays, and cultural events with a strong community focus.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings during shows

Experience the magic of live theater

CrowdMedium
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From our seats not really a bad seat in the house stage in full view.

Civic Theatre Allentown

Best Time

Evenings during shows

Experience the magic of live theater

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 19th Street Theatre showcasing musicals, plays, and cultural events with a strong community focus.

4.8
(404 reviews)

"It is a beautiful theater! The production was excellent, the actors were very professional!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book tickets early!

Popular shows sell out fast. Secure your spot for musicals and plays in advance.

πŸš— Free parking nearby

Utilize free parking at Wells Fargo after bank hours for a convenient arrival.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic 19th Street Theatre

Historic 19th Street Theatre

Main Auditorium

Experience live performances in a beautifully restored, intimate venue that feels both grand and cozy.

InstagramReddit
Major Musical Productions

Major Musical Productions

Main Stage

Catch dazzling productions of popular musicals like Pippin, Shrek, and Groundhog Day.

TikTokInstagram+1
Community & Cultural Events

Community & Cultural Events

Various Spaces

Enjoy diverse events like spoken word performances and celebrations of Black music.

TikTokInstagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Civic Theatre Allentown sell out quickly. Booking your tickets online in advance ensures you get the best seats and avoid disappointment, especially for musicals like Shrek or Pippin. TikTok+1

Arrive Early for Parking & Atmosphere

While free parking is available after bank hours at Wells Fargo, arriving a bit early allows time to find a spot and soak in the historic ambiance of this beautifully restored venue. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings during shows
Why
Experience the magic of live theater
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Most showtimes available
Crowd
High
When
During special events
Why
Unique cultural showcases
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Twin Siblings Keane and Kayla Carrington deliver a powerful spoken word performance at The Family Reunion black music celebration at @civictheatre in Allentown, Pa on March 23rd, 2025. The showcase featured dozens of performers and speakers honoring black artists both then and now. Directed by @iam_juanitarenay and Veronica Cummings #lehighvalleypa #lehighvalley #bethlehempa #bethlehem #pennsylvan...
@lehighdaily
195.8K likes β€’ 897.8K views

🎯 Book tickets early!

Popular shows sell out fast. Secure your spot for musicals and plays in advance. TikTokInstagram+1

πŸš— Free parking nearby

Utilize free parking at Wells Fargo after bank hours for a convenient arrival. Reddit

πŸ’ͺπŸ—‘ LEWIS invites you to see LEWIS in the musical Pippin (starring LEWIS), now through May 19! #Lewis 🎟 CivicTheatre.com 🎭 John Capocasale #LehighValley #LVMadePossible #LehighValleyTheatre #LVStage #AllentownPA #LiveTheatre #civictheatre #CivicTheatreofAllentown #weareCivicTheatre #theater #theatre #Pippin ##stephenschwartz #wicked #musical #musicaltheatre #musicaltheater
@civictheatreofallentown
5.4K likes β€’ 37.7K views
I recently spent some time in Allentown’s West End, visiting the @civictheatre, a cherished #LehighValley establishment that has been a home for artists of all ages for nearly a century. 🎭 From their live performances to their esteemed Civic Theatre School, the Civic Theatre of Allentown provides a safe and nurturing space for artists to express themselves through the Arts and find their communi...
sennickmiller
55 likes β€’ 1.5K views

✨ Enjoy the historic charm

The beautifully restored building offers a unique atmosphere. InstagramReddit

🎭 Support local talent

The theatre showcases professional and community performers. InstagramReddit

✨️ Civic Theatre is the hidden gem of Allentown! Catch the Lehigh Valley premiere of TROUBLE IN MIND, directed by @gabejmoses, March 17-26! 🎟 Get tickets at CivicTheatre.com πŸŽ₯ @asrmediaproductions #LehighValley #LVMadePossible #LehighValleyTheatre #LVStage #AllentownPA #LiveTheatre #civictheatre #CivicTheatreofAllentown #weareCivicTheatre #theater #theatre #TroubleInMind #play #playwright #alice...
civictheatre
74 likes β€’ 979 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book tickets early!

Popular shows sell out fast. Secure your spot for musicals and plays in advance. TikTokInstagram+1

πŸš— Free parking nearby

Utilize free parking at Wells Fargo after bank hours for a convenient arrival. Reddit

✨ Enjoy the historic charm

The beautifully restored building offers a unique atmosphere. InstagramReddit

🎭 Support local talent

The theatre showcases professional and community performers. InstagramReddit

β˜• Grab a drink at the bar

A small, nice attached bar is available before shows. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(404 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Civic Theatre's beautifully restored historic building and the professional quality of its productions. The intimate atmosphere and pleasant staff contribute to a positive experience, though some note minor issues with accents in specific plays or limited restroom facilities. Overall, it's considered a gem worth supporting. Reddit+2

"I had never been to Civic before. The building is amazing and beautiful. The customer service provided by box office and the ushers gave me big city vibes. (In a good way)
I loved that they took a risk with Reefer Madness. Its not a well known crowd pleaser, but its a fantastic show.
Thank you for a great experience!"

Eric Baker

"I loooved this historic theater! Very cool atmosphere and pleasant staff! 10/10 will go again! Also loved the free parking at the Wells Fargo bank after bank hours."

Bonnie Boyer

"It is a beautiful theater! The production was excellent, the actors were very professional! The only down sides were that the fake British accents were not always good and extremely exaggerated making it almost impossible to discern what they were saying at times. And there is I believe only one bathroom total for everyone. The play lasted an hour and 45 minutes making the tickets well worth the price."

Kyle Doin Stuff

What People Like

Beautiful historic venue
Professional productions
Intimate atmosphere

What People Dislike

Inconsistent accents
Limited restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

The Civic Theatre is located at 527 N 19th Street, Allentown, PA 18104. Instagram It's easily accessible by car. For parking, many reviewers mention free parking is available at the Wells Fargo bank after bank hours, which is a great tip for saving money. Reddit

Yes, free parking is often available at the adjacent Wells Fargo bank lot after business hours. Reddit Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, especially for popular shows. TikTok

Driving is the most common method. Public transportation options might be available depending on your starting point in Allentown. Check local transit schedules for routes serving the 19th Street area. TikTok

The theatre aims to be accessible. It's advisable to contact the box office directly to discuss specific accessibility needs for seating or other accommodations. Instagram

The theatre is situated in Allentown's West End Theater District, known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the Civic Theatre's official website (CivicTheatre.com) or directly at the box office. TikTok+1 Booking in advance is highly recommended as popular shows can sell out. Instagram

Showtimes vary depending on the production, but typically include evening performances on weekdays and weekends, with matinees often available on Saturdays and Sundays. Check the theatre's schedule for specific showtimes. Instagram

Some nights may offer 'pay what you want' tickets, which can lead to a lively and packed house. Reddit It's always a good idea to check the theatre's website or call the box office for any current promotions or discounts. TikTok

Policies can vary by performance. It's best to review the specific terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office for details on exchanges or refunds. TikTok

Doors typically open for seating about 30 minutes before the show starts. Instagram Arriving a bit earlier allows time to find parking, use the restroom, and perhaps visit the bar. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The seats are generally described as comfy with decent legroom, and many even have cup holders. Reddit The theatre is intimate, offering a good view from most seats. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available. Reviews mention both a small single restroom near the bar and larger, nice restrooms on the other side of the venue. Reddit

The theatre hosts a variety of productions, including major musicals, plays, classic film screenings, and community events like spoken word competitions and celebrations of Black music. TikTokInstagram+4

There is a nice attached bar where you can grab a drink before the show. Reddit Food options might be limited, so it's best to check with the venue or plan to dine before or after your visit. TikTok

The atmosphere is often described as cozy, professional, and intimate, with a cool, historic vibe. Reddit+1 The beautifully restored building contributes to a special experience. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Civic Theatre is located in Allentown's West End, which has a growing number of dining options. You can find various cuisines within a short drive or walk from the theatre. Instagram

Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the auditorium. It's best to consume any food or beverages before entering the seating area. TikTok

Allentown offers a range of restaurants from casual eateries to more upscale dining. Exploring the West End or downtown areas can yield great culinary finds. Instagram

While there is an attached bar for drinks, specific concession stand details are not widely mentioned. It's advisable to check with the venue for current offerings. Reddit

Yes, many restaurants in Allentown cater to families. You can find pizza places, diners, and other casual spots suitable for all ages. TikTok

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during live performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. TikTok+1 Check with ushers or signage for specific rules regarding non-performance times or lobby areas. Instagram

The historic architecture of the theatre itself, both inside and out, makes for beautiful photos. Capture the grand facade or the ornate interior details before the show begins. InstagramReddit

No, taking photos or videos during a performance is strictly prohibited. This is a common rule in most theaters to ensure the best experience for everyone. TikTok+1

Flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances as it can be distracting and disruptive. TikTok+1

A camera capable of low-light photography would be ideal for capturing the ambiance of the historic theatre. However, even a smartphone can capture great shots of the exterior and interior before the show. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§ Families with Kids

The Civic Theatre is a fantastic destination for families! They stage popular musicals like 'Shrek the Musical' and 'The SpongeBob Musical' that are sure to entertain younger audiences. TikTokInstagram The theatre also offers programs through its Civic Theatre School, providing opportunities for kids to engage with the performing arts. Instagram Consider arriving a bit early to allow children time to settle in, and check the show's runtime to gauge suitability for very young children. Instagram

πŸ’° Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the Civic Theatre offers a great experience. Look out for 'pay what you want' ticket nights, which can significantly reduce the cost of admission and often lead to a lively atmosphere. Reddit Additionally, taking advantage of the free parking at the Wells Fargo lot after bank hours can save you money on parking fees. Reddit

🎭 Theatre Aficionados

If you appreciate live theatre, the Civic Theatre of Allentown is a must-visit. Its beautifully restored historic venue provides an intimate and engaging setting for a wide range of professional productions, from classic plays to contemporary musicals. InstagramReddit The theatre's commitment to diverse programming means you can often catch unique or critically acclaimed shows that might not tour to larger cities. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Charm of the 19th Street Theatre

The Civic Theatre of Allentown is housed in the beautifully restored 19th Street Theatre, a venue that has been a cornerstone of the Lehigh Valley's arts scene for nearly a century. Instagram Visitors consistently praise the building's historic ambiance, describing it as both grand and intimate. Reddit The restoration efforts have preserved its charm, making it a delightful place to experience live performances. From the comfortable seating with cup holders to the overall cozy and professional atmosphere, the venue itself enhances the theatrical experience. Reddit+1

This historic setting provides a unique backdrop for the diverse range of shows presented. Whether it's a major musical production or a more intimate spoken word event, the 19th Street Theatre offers a special connection between the performers and the audience. Instagram The attention to detail in maintaining the theatre's character contributes significantly to its appeal, making it a cherished landmark for the community and a must-visit for theater enthusiasts. InstagramReddit

A Stage for Diverse Productions

Civic Theatre Allentown is renowned for bringing a wide array of productions to its stage, from blockbuster musicals to thought-provoking plays and community showcases. Audiences can expect to see popular shows like 'Pippin,' 'Shrek the Musical,' and 'The SpongeBob Musical,' often featuring talented local and professional actors. TikTokInstagram+1 The theatre isn't afraid to take risks, staging lesser-known but fantastic shows like 'Reefer Madness,' which was a hit with one reviewer. Reddit

Beyond musicals, the theatre also hosts significant cultural events, such as 'The Family Reunion,' a celebration of Black music and artists, and poetry pop-up competitions. TikTokInstagram+1 This commitment to diverse programming ensures there's something for everyone, fostering a vibrant arts community. The Civic Theatre School also provides a nurturing space for artists of all ages, further solidifying its role as a hub for creativity in the Lehigh Valley. Instagram+1

Community and Family Engagement

The Civic Theatre of Allentown is more than just a performance venue; it's a community hub that actively engages audiences of all ages. They offer workshops and programs through their Civic Theatre School, providing a safe and nurturing environment for aspiring artists. Instagram This focus on education and development makes the theatre a valuable resource for families looking to introduce their children to the performing arts. TikTokInstagram

Events like 'The Family Reunion' and poetry competitions highlight the theatre's dedication to celebrating diverse voices and fostering local talent. TikTokInstagram+1 The 'pay what you want' ticket nights are also a great way to make theatre accessible to a wider audience, encouraging community participation. Reddit This inclusive approach, combined with high-quality productions, makes the Civic Theatre a beloved institution in Allentown. Instagram

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