The Athens Theatre, shown above, is located on Pollock Street in historic downtown New Bern. Designed by renown New Bern Architect Herbert W. Simpson this theatre was opened in 1911. At the time of its opening it was considered one of the best equipped and decorated theatres in the south. During this era vaudeville, traveling theatre troupes, and silent movies were often the headline shows.The great depression put a halt to much of the arts and it was not until the mid 1970's that they started to make a comeback in New Bern. The influx of retiree's many of whom came from large metropolitan areas has significantly added to the cultural awareness of the city.

New Bern Civic Theatre

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The Masonic Theatre shown above was built in 1805 and remained New Bern's center of cultural and civic activity for well over 100 years.

During the Civil War it was used as a hospital by Union soldiers who occupied New Bern for much of the war.

Among the many activities that the theatre has been used for include .concerts, talent shows, vaudeville, political rallies, and stage plays.

In 1917 it became a motion picture theatre and remained so until it was closed in 1974. My mother used to drop me and my brother and sister off every Saturday to catch a double feature while she did her shopping. The cost for admission for children was $.25. Of coarse popcorn and a soda were extra. At the time of its closing it was the nations oldest continually operating theatre.

Today the majestic Masonic is still being used for plays and concerts. The Serendipity Players, currently inactive, use it as their home theatre.

For information on the Serendipity Players

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The Rivertowne Reperatory Players is New Bern's newest theatre group. Formed in 2001 they are dedicated to promoting the theatrical arts in the New Bern Area. The Rivertowne performances take place at the Shrine Auditorium, located in downtown New Bern.