The Wizard of Oz is a classic tale that follows the adventures of Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas, who is swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. Upon arriving, she meets a group of unusual friends: the Scarecrow, who longs for a brain; the Tin Man, who desires a heart; and the Cowardly Lion, who seeks courage. Together, they journey to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard of Oz, who they believe can grant their wishes.

Along the way, they must avoid the Wicked Witch of the West, who seeks revenge for the death of her sister. With the help of Glinda, the Good Witch, and her own resourcefulness, Dorothy ultimately learns that the power to return home was within her all along. She clicks her ruby slippers together and wishes to return to Kansas, waking up back in her own bed, surrounded by her family and friends, realizing that "there's no place like home."

RiverTowne Players is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enriching and entertaining the residents of Eastern North Carolina by providing high-quality theatre. Our mission is to offer a platform for local actors, musicians, and artists to showcase their talents.

We are proud to call the historic Masonic Theatre our home. Originally opened in 1805, the Masonic Theatre was once the cultural heart of New Bern, hosting stage plays, talent benefits, concerts, and vaudeville acts. During the Civil War, it served as a Confederate arsenal and later as a hospital for Union soldiers. In 1917, it was converted into a motion picture theater, operating continuously until 1974, making it the nation's oldest continually operating theatre until its closure.

Today, the Masonic Theatre has been lovingly restored to its original purpose of live entertainment. Visitors can experience the unique ambiance of the oldest working theatre in the United States while enjoying a RiverTowne Players production.

Location:
Masonic Theatre
514 Hancock Street
New Bern, NC 28560