Yes, it's convenient for locals who don't want to travel to the city or even Tilles but if you expect to see a quality well directed show you won't get it here. Huge bar and lounge area pre and after theatre encouraging drinks brought to your seat. REALLY! Management of this entity is missing a huge opportunity to bring a varied season of plays that stimulate thinking (a drama) rather than old musicals. I just saw the 2013 Tony award winning comedy and it was agonizing to watch. I wasn't alone in my opinion as the woman next to me said "a high school performance is better than this". This could be such a gem for Northport if managed correctly in talented and capable hands.
The theatre is beautifully appointment. When you walk in you are in a lovely bar lounge. THe wine choices were good and the bartenders were quick and friendly. The seating is set up well so all seats are good. They are a bit tight though and the theatre got very warm ( on a 20 degree night). A little piece of the arts right here in Northport!
I discovered this theater one summer when looking for something to do with my daughter. It is located in the beautiful picturesque town of Northport, on Long Island's north shore. The theater, which was a movie house, has been extensively renovated and made to look like what you would find in an old majestic Broadway theater. Most of the shows I have seen have pretty good theater productions; because of size of stage, it limits the props and scene changes. Actors have been good quality, though not as good as what I have seen on NYC Broadway; many have performed in several shows. Ticket prices have been going up however, with limited, if no discounts codes available. There is a bar area, but I have not purchased alcoholic beverages. Refreshments have NYC prices; $2 for an individual bags of M&Ms and $3 for bottled water are crazy. I have not used the valet parking service, as there is usually parking available on the street and I do not want to wait for them to get my car. There are now many other local productions available on a year-round basis on Long Island, some closer to my home. However, a stroll down the historic Main Street, but light entertainment, make it worth a visit.
great not having to travel into NYC to see quality shows......every seat in theatre is good & has a nice bar & greeting area & in a great town with nice restaurants
We are Season Ticket holders. Have enjoyed every play, whether a drama or a musical. First rate! Close to home, lovely Theater, valet parking, half the price of a Broadway show ticket and just as good. Arrive early and enjoy a relaxing drink in the beautiful piano lounge before the show. They have Children's shows every season and special events for Season Tickets holders. Always an enjoyable evening!
My first time to John W. Engeman Theater and what a pleasant surprise. The entire staff from the minute you enter the theater is just wonderful. There is a nice bar when you enter again with a very friendly staff. Seats are comfortable and the show was excellent. It is not a large Broadway production but more of a small home town theater with lots of tallent and class. We saw Vanya, Sonia, Masha & Spike and you can see that these people are really into craft and they were a pleasure to watch. They entertained us and made our Saturday night out great,
The theater is a converted movie theater. A small venue which was perfect for this production. The acting was first rate. It was our first time at the theater but it will not be our last.
Kevin O'Neill started this venture in 2006 with his wife Patti. It was named after Patti's brother John who was killed in Iraq. We have been season's ticket holders from opening night. We enjoy each an every play. Kevin and staff accommodate their season ticket clientele with many thoughtful perks. The actors are all 'Actor's Equity' members and are extremely talented and impressive. Single play tickets are always available and we highly recommend you give this special local Broadway hotspot a try !!
Full disclosure: My wife and I are members. That should tell you everything you need to know. It's just a great theatre experience, for like half of what you'd pay for Broadway tix. Beautiful theater, great productions; quality cast. You won't get front-line Broadway stars but you'll get pro people who may have been in the touring company. It's one of the best cultural experiences on Long Island, Highly recommended - BEST BUY!
saw the show last evening called Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike. First act was a little slow but picked up near intermission. second act was much better. My favorites actors were Kevin Pariseau, Sean Young, and the funniest and cutest house keeper was Isabel Santiago.It was a great evening of theatre. It is always good to support local theatre.