Live theatre is a one of a kind experience. It’s a great way to be truly immersed in a story while also being part of a unique community for a single night: an audience. Rochester has a thriving theatre scene that’s well worth exploring on your next visit! Here are some of the best places to catch live theatre in Rochester, NY.
Blackfriars Theatre | 795 East Main Street, Rochester, NY 14605
Located right in downtown Rochester, Blackfriars is a mid-sized professional theatre that offers a wide variety of shows every year. They also host a comedy series as well as free, family-friendly program with drag queen Mrs. Kasha Davis! Her Imagination Station program is an inclusive event that features a storytime, dance party, craft, and original music.
Rochester Broadway Theatre League | 885 East Main Street, Rochester, NY 14605
Whether you’re looking to see a Broadway musical and can’t make it to New York City or you want to see world-class ballet, you can catch it at the Rochester Broadway Theatre League in the newly renovated West Herr Auditorium Theatre. They show incredible performances year-round and aim to make them accessible to a broad audience.
Geva Theatre | 75 Woodbury Boulevard, Rochester, NY 14607
Variety is the name of the game at Geva Theatre in downtown Rochester! You can see everything from classics to musicals on their Elaine P. Wilson Stage. Their smaller theatre, the Ron & Donna Fielding Stage, features comedy, contemporary dramas, and more. You can even catch an improv show or play reading series! Arrive early to enjoy tasty sandwiches before the show from Geva Kitchen, or take a moment to savor a glass of wine or delicious dessert during intermission.
OFC Creations Theatre Centre | 3450 Winton Place, Rochester, NY 14623
Located in Brighton, OFC Creations features popular shows rarely performed in Western New York! They also offer educational programs for kids ages 4 to 18, and host recitals twice a year where you can catch performances by their talented students. For extra fun and flair, don’t miss their drag brunches! Filled with fabulous drag queens, mimosas, a brunch buffet, and more, you’re sure to have an amazing experience.
Comedy at the Carlson | 50 Carlson Road, Rochester, NY 14610
Need a good laugh? Check out Comedy at the Carlson, located in the North Winton Village. Every week, they host hilarious entertainers from across the country. Grab a drink and a bite to eat before the show and settle in for a night of laughter and fun.
The Theater at Innovation Square | 131 Chestnut Street, Rochester, NY 14604
You can catch a diverse assortment of shows at the Theater at Innovation Square, from ballet to stage shows! They bring in a variety of acts from all over, so check their schedule for exciting upcoming events.
Kodak Center | 200 West Ridge Road, Rochester, NY 14615
Just a few minutes from downtown Rochester, Kodak Center hosts large-scale theatre, comedy, and family-friendly events. They have an abundance of parking spots, too!
Fine Arts Series at SUNY Brockport | 350 New Campus Drive, Brockport, NY 14420
Located on the SUNY Brockport campus, the Fine Arts Series is an excellent opportunity to enjoy live theater at accessible prices. Some of the shows are also ASL interpreted, so check their website for dates and details. They even host a conversation series with theatre professionals, so if you’re curious about the industry, make sure to attend an interactive panel!
Rochester Fringe Festival | PO Box 10508, Rochester, NY 14610
Every September, Rochester Fringe Festival brings together an abundance of talented humans to put on shows of all kinds–music, dance, comedy, spoken word poetry, theatre, and more. There’s something for everyone, so browse their guide and find a unique show that you won’t forget!
Since Rochester has such a variety of theatre companies in the area, it can be hard to keep up! Theatrerocs is a great resource for learning more about theatre news and offerings in the Roc. Follow their Facebook page to stay up to date.
What’s your favorite kind of show to see? We hope you enjoy immersing yourself in a captivating performance on your next trip to Rochester! Share photos from your next night out at the theatre with #VisitRoc.
