Matthews Playhouse
About
Matthews Playhouse is a welcoming community theater that brings performing arts to life for families through high-quality, age-appropriate productions and hands-on youth programs. Beyond entertaining shows, they offer year-round theater classes and camps where kids can develop confidence, creativity, and stage skills in a supportive environment.
Highlights
- ✓High-quality family musicals and plays performed throughout the year
- ✓Youth theater program where kids perform in full-scale productions
- ✓Summer theater camps and year-round performing arts classes
- ✓Intimate theater setting where every seat feels close to the action
- ✓Affordable, accessible introduction to live theater for children
Pro Tips
- 1.Book tickets early for popular family shows and holiday productions as they often sell out weeks in advance
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find parking on nearby streets and let kids use the restroom before showtime
- 3.Check their website for 'Pay What You Can' performances which offer affordable options for families on a budget
- 4.Enroll kids in summer theater camps early (registration opens in spring) as spots fill quickly
- 5.Sit toward the middle of the theater for the best views, as the intimate venue means there really aren't any bad seats
Best Time to Visit
Evening performances (typically Friday-Sunday) are ideal for family shows, with matinee performances on weekends being especially popular for younger children. Fall and spring seasons offer the most diverse programming including youth-focused productions.
What to Know
Ticket prices are very reasonable for community theater (typically $15-25 per person). Free street parking is available around downtown Matthews, and the historic theater building is centrally located with restaurants and ice cream shops within walking distance.
Seasonal Notes
Holiday productions (November-December) are especially magical for families. Summer camps run June-August and require advance registration. The theater typically goes dark for a few weeks between seasons (check schedule online).
Nearby Eats
Walk to The Table at 316 for comfort food with a kids menu, or grab post-show ice cream at Matthews Moo & Brew just down the street.
More Activities Near Matthews
Crestdale Middle
Crestdale Middle School in Matthews opens its excellent playground facilities to the community during non-school hours, offering families a well-maintained space for outdoor fun. The playground features quality equipment alongside basketball courts and spacious green areas perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket and letting kids run freely in a safe, fenced environment.
Elizabeth Lane Elementary School
Elizabeth Lane Elementary School in Matthews features a well-maintained community playground and recreational spaces that are open to the public outside school hours. This neighborhood gem offers a peaceful setting with playground equipment, basketball court, and open grassy areas perfect for picnics and active play without the crowds of larger parks.
Four Mile Creek Greenway
Four Mile Creek Greenway offers families a beautifully paved, multi-use trail system that's perfect for introducing little ones to biking or enjoying leisurely strolls through nature. This scenic pathway connects several Matthews parks, providing safe, car-free exploration where kids can pedal freely while parents enjoy peaceful creek views and natural surroundings.
Squirrel Lake Park
Squirrel Lake Park is Matthews' go-to family destination, offering something for every age with its expansive playground, shaded walking trails, and a seasonal splash pad that's a lifesaver on hot summer days. With well-maintained athletic fields, covered picnic shelters, and plenty of green space for impromptu games, it's the perfect spot for both planned outings and spontaneous afternoon adventures.