Long Wharf Theater

Unlike many theaters that strive to simply entertain attendees with classic performances, the Long Wharf Theater offers shows that feature an agenda, bringing what it believes to be education to the New Haven community. The theatre began in a food terminal near the New Haven Harbor and was founded by Harlan Kleiman and Jon Jory, two men who dreamed of having a professional theater company in New Haven. Together, with community leaders and residents of the area with a respect for the arts, the two saw their vision come to life in 1965 with a presentation of Arthur Miler's The Crucible. The theater's main stage auditorium originally featured seats from a retired movie house. Today, the theater is recognized internationally and often hosts well-known performers from Broadway, television and film. The season features six plays on two different stages, along with a children's program, special events and theater workshops. Because so many Long Wharf attendees become interested in the theater after seeing a play, the theater has become a sort of classroom for those who want to learn more. A variety of educational programs are available to the public including theater training, comprehension and historical studies of the performing arts.