Editors’ Choice
The Actors Studio of Newburyport, Newburyport
Standout Qualities: Founded in 1991, The Actors Studio of Newburyport, a 50-seat black box theatre, has offered both aspiring and established actors and writers and their audiences an intimate, creative experience they call “interactive theater.”
Philosophy: All classes are based on creating a safe environment and the belief that everyone comes to class fully equipped to succeed.
What’s Unique: Audience members have the opportunity to directly influence the creation of the next musical, comedy, or drama, and the door is open to all to participate in the dynamic process of developing a play.
12 Federal St., Newburyport, 978-465-1229, newburyportacting.com
Readers’ Choice
North Shore Music Theatre, Beverly
Standout Qualities: Under new ownership by Bill Hanney since 2010, NSMT has continued to produce a musical subscription series and an annual production of A Christmas Carol along with celebrity concerts, children’s programming, and year-round education programs.
What’s Unique: Since 1955, NSMT has become one of the most attended theatres in New England, with approximately 250,000 patrons annually.
Fun Fact: NSMT produced the world premiere of Memphis in 2003, which went on to win four Tony Awards in 2010, including Best Musical.
62 Dunham Rd. #1, Beverly, 978-232-7200, nsmt.org