The ceiling of the grand lobby is adorned with a massive, hand-painted mural of scenes from the Italian Renaissance.
The theatre houses a rare 1930 Moller pipe organ, which remains in functional condition for performances and silent film accompaniment.
During construction, the theatre project provided significant employment to local laborers, helping mitigate the economic impact of the Great Depression in Hershey.
The auditorium floor was specifically designed with a slight rake to ensure optimal sightlines for every seat in the house.
The building's interior utilizes extensive amounts of marble and brass, reflecting the high-end industrial design trends of the early 20th century.
The Hershey Theatre is a historic performance venue in Hershey, Pennsylvania, that opened in 1933 as part of Milton S. Hershey’s 'Great Building Campaign' during the Great Depression. The structure features a distinctive grand lobby with a limestone facade and a lavish interior designed by architect E. E. Hoglund. The auditorium showcases a 'transcontinental' design theme, incorporating artistic elements from various world cultures including Italian, French, and Spanish motifs. It remains the town's premier venue for Broadway-style musicals, concerts, comedy performances, and classic films. The stage is equipped with a fully functional fly gallery and an orchestra pit, facilitating large-scale touring productions. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. It retains its original 1930s aesthetic while offering modern technical amenities for contemporary performers. The venue operates as a central cultural hub for the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts portfolio.
The central grand staircase under the ornate ceiling mural provides the most iconic perspective of the interior.
Arrive early to explore the intricate architectural details of the grand lobby before your show begins.
Check the official website for specialized 'backstage' or 'history' tour opportunities that run outside of showtimes.
Parking can become congested; plan to arrive early to secure a spot in the designated nearby lots.
Do not attempt to purchase tickets from third-party scalpers near the venue; use the official Hershey Entertainment box office or website.
Business casual is standard for evening performances; avoid wearing overly casual athletic gear in the orchestra section.
