Since 1946, Black Hills Playhouse has been producing quality theater surrounded by some of South Dakota’s most beautiful views.
“The playhouse began as a dream of Dr. Warren M. Lee of the University of South Dakota,” explained executive director Linda Anderson.
Lee’s goals were to create high-quality entertainment for people in the Black Hills while providing training and employment opportunities for both students and theater professionals.
Each year, auditions and interviews are held across the country in search of talented actors, directors, designers, technicians, and interns.
Once selected, these artists live in dorms, rehearse, and build scenery and costumes on-site in picturesque Custer State Park.
Under the Sea
This summer, Black Hills Playhouse’s performing arts camp students will be performing The Little Mermaid Jr.
Performances are Tuesday through Sunday throughout the summer, and shows are held in a rustic-feeling 345- seat house.
“We foster a dynamic and inclusive environment where creative thinkers and artists collaborate to produce remarkable theater and groundbreaking educational programs that explore the full spectrum of the human experience,” shared artistic director Dan Workman.
The playhouse’s typical season consists of two musicals and two non-musicals each summer.
Workman says the theater company balances between family-friendly shows and other, more challenging work that speaks to issues the community is passionate about.
This summer’s lineup consists of Murder on the Orient Express, Legally Blonde: The Musical, Waitress, and The Book of Will.
Anderson says this year’s shows are a lot to look forward to: stories of friendship, suspense, joy, and incredible music.
‘Tis the Season
Catch a show this summer:
June 8–22 // Murder on the Orient Express
June 29–July 13 // Legally Blonde: The Musical
July 20–Aug 3 // Waitress
Aug 10 – 16 // The Book of Will
Choosing the shows for each season is a process of research, reading, and community.
“A lot of scripts are read, and musicals are listened to,” shared Workman. “Many conversations take place with numerous people including year-round staff, seasonal staff, and board members.”
Workman aims to choose shows that work well as a whole for logistics and casting.
“It’s very important that Linda and I both support the proposed season, which we give to the Board of Directors, who then discuss and either approve or not,” he said.
In addition to the summer season, Black Hills Playhouse produces shows in Sioux Falls for all ages and abilities.
“Since 1999, we have toured theater education programs to youth in communities large & small statewide.”–Linda Anderson
Summer performing arts camps also bring kids to the Black Hills to hone their skills as they rehearse and perform a show.
If you haven’t made it to a show before at the Black Hills Playhouse, the experience is like none other. Though the theater is committed to providing exceptional quality shows utilizing artists from across the country, they are also intent upon the experience being casual and friendly to attend.
“People are encouraged to come right off the trails to the theater, and the wildlife roam right through the campus,” said Anderson.
“If you’re lucky, you’ll see a buffalo while you’re there,” she added.
ADMIT ONE
Holiday passes are on sale from Nov 1- Dec 31 at their lowest prices of the season:
Stocking Stuffer 2 tickets // $68
Secret Santa 4 tickets // $130
Shout it from the Rooftop 8 tickets // $256
Shining Star 16 tickets // $505
Since the playhouse is adjacent to Center Lake Campground—which Anderson claims is one of the best camping spots in the hills—people can camp, walk from the beach or the trail, and see a show.
Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and many other campgrounds, lakes, and trails are practically in the playhouse’s backyard for a day of family fun.
“Plan a date night with someone special, bring a picnic and dine before or after a show, or bring your kids to see live theater,” Anderson recommends.
She also advises to dress for the weather and bring layers to prepare for the coolness of evening.
Gathering extravagant talent to perform against the backdrop of the Black Hills is exhilarating for Anderson and Workman.
“I love seeing families having a great time, and working with the amazingly creative and talented theater artists from across the country,” said Anderson.
Workman agrees: “Every summer I bring together a group of artists from all over the country to put on the best productions possible, and it’s always exciting to see what each of those company members bring to the Black Hills Playhouse.”
