Wilmington, Delaware may have a population of just 70,000, but when it comes to the performing arts, we punch well above our weight. Perfectly situated between New York City and Washington, D.C., Wilmington is an ideal place to catch Broadway-caliber performances, live concerts, dance, and original theatrical works—often at a fraction of the price and in more intimate settings. 
 
Whether you're a theater aficionado, live music enthusiast, or simply looking for a special night out, these 10 must-see performing arts venues in Greater Wilmington offer unforgettable entertainment. 

Performing Arts

From the great masterpieces of music and dance to the first productions of emerging playwrights, the arts in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley…

Joe del Tufo

The Broadway Stage 

The Playhouse on Rodney Square 
1007 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 

One of the oldest theaters on the Broadway touring circuit, this historic Playhouse has hosted everything from Tony Award-winning musicals to smash-hit dramas and comedies. If you’re looking to experience the magic of Broadway without traveling to New York, this is your front-row ticket. A preview of the 2025-2026 Season can be found here!

The Versatile Stage 

The Grand Opera House 
818 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 

An architectural gem and cultural hub, The Grand features a dynamic lineup that includes jazz concerts, classical symphonies, ballet, children’s theater, and comedy shows. It’s also home to OperaDelaware, First State Ballet Theatre, and the Delaware Symphony Orchestra. 

The Dance-the-Night-Away Stage 

The Queen 
500 N. Market St., Wilmington, DE 

This vibrant live music venue hosts rock, indie, R&B, and hip-hop acts, as well as themed dance nights, drag shows, and tribute bands. With top-notch acoustics and an energetic atmosphere, The Queen is where Wilmington goes to let loose. 
 

The I-Saw-It-Here-First Stage 

Delaware Theatre Company 
200 Water St., Wilmington, DE 

As the only professional theater in Delaware developing new works for the stage, DTC frequently premieres original productions and thought-provoking dramas that often go on to national acclaim. 


The Outdoor Stage 

Delaware Shakespeare at Rockwood Park 
4651 Washington St. Ext., Wilmington, DE 

Each summer, Delaware Shakespeare builds a temporary outdoor stage to bring the works of William Shakespeare to life under the stars. From A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Macbeth, these open-air productions are family-friendly, picnic-friendly, and always unforgettable. 

The Dinner-and-a-Show Stage 

The Candlelight Theatre 
2208 Millers Rd., Wilmington, DE 

This beloved dinner theater offers a full meal followed by a live stage performance. Audiences enjoy classic musicals, comedies, and jukebox hits in a warm, cabaret-style setting. 


The All-Ages Stage 

Delaware Children’s Theatre 
1014 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, DE 

For over five decades, this community institution has introduced generations of kids to the performing arts. Expect fun, family-friendly productions like storybook favorites, animated classics, and musicals designed for younger audiences. 

The University Stage 

Resident Ensemble Players at UD 
110 Orchard Rd., Newark, DE 

Located on the University of Delaware campus, this professional resident company stages a diverse mix of plays—from modern comedies and literary adaptations to Shakespearean epics—in a state-of-the-art theater. 

The Community Stage 

Wilmington Drama League 
10 W. Lea Blvd., Wilmington, DE 

A true community gem, the Wilmington Drama League produces several shows each year, including Broadway-style musicals, family plays, and socially relevant dramas. 

The Garden Stage 

The Brandywiners Ltd. at Longwood Gardens 
1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square, PA 

Each summer, this nonprofit group stages lavish musical productions in the open-air theater at Longwood Gardens, just minutes from Wilmington. 


From historic opera houses to open-air Shakespeare, Wilmington, Delaware is a hidden gem for lovers of the performing arts. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a date night, or a family outing, there's always a show worth seeing in Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley. 

Discover more arts and culture experiences at VisitWilmingtonDE.com.