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About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
The Brooke Hills Playhouse was established in present-day Brooke Hills Park in a Pre-Civil War apple barn, and is located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, in Brooke County. The playhouse was West Virginia's first traditional summer stock theater, and was started by four area residents in 1971: John Hennen of Wheeling, WV, Judith "Judy" Porter-Hennen of New Cumberland, West Virginia, Bill Harper of Chester, West Virginia, and Sharon Murphy Harper of Wellsburg, West Virginia.
The playhouse, which has been home to amateur theater for 54 seasons, is a division of the Brooke County Arts Council (established 1982). The playhouse traditionally performs five shows per season, ranging from farce comedies to musical productions to children's shows. We welcome the community to be a part of the magic, whether auditioning for shows, helping backstage, running concessions, or enjoying our performances. No experience necessary!
The "barn," as it is often called, was once the actual barn of the wealthy and prominent S.C. Gist and the Gist family of Wellsburg, West Virginia in the 18th and 19th century.
Our mission encompasses a variety of stage plays, musicals, mysteries, and unique events, all designed to foster appreciation for the arts in our community.
Our Story
Our summer season and off-season events are run by a totally volunteer-based force, led by the Brooke County Arts Council Board Members. Every ticket taker, set painter, actor, and worker are here for the love of the arts. We are proud to foster the education and continuation of the performing arts in Brooke County and the Ohio Valley.