Theatre lovers in Cleburne, Texas, can enjoy dinner and a live show at Plaza Theatre’s Nifty Fifties series every Saturday night in May, 2020. The Plaza Theatre company members star in the new series of “drive-up” theatre performances. The Barrus family singers and their “Folk Rock Fest” features some of the greatest hits from the era that ushered in rock-and-roll.
Parking is available in the Dudley Hall parking lot starting at 7:30 p.m., with the live performance at 8:30 p.m. on May 16. Patrons can enjoy the show from the safety of their cars, with audio pumped in over the radio.
Photo: Plaza Theatre Company
In yet another nod to the past, Car Hops are also making a comeback for the Nifty Fifties shows. Patrons can enjoy dinner and drinks served right to your car after ordering from the nearby Black Sheep Baa & Grill. Call 682-317-1848 to order everything from burgers to tacos to salads from their extensive menu.
New programs are featured each Saturday night in May, with the Nifty Fifties series continuing on May 23 and 30. Admission to the performances is free, although donations to Plaza Theatre Co. are welcome.
Photo: Plaza Theatre Company
Plaza Theatre’s Artistic Director JaceSon Barrus said, “When it became clear that we were going to have to take a break from producing live shows from inside our beautiful theatre, we began to consider other options to continue entertaining our community.”
Staff discussions brought up an idea for a “modified drive-up performance, that would allow our patrons and performers alike to remain socially distant but also to enjoy the thrill of live performance,” Barrus said.
When the drive-up option launched, the community response was “overwhelmingly positive,” Barrus added. “We filled our lot with our first show. Then when we partnered with our restaurant neighbor at Black Sheep Baaa & Grill, they saw great response as well. All in all it has been a huge hit with great word-of-mouth and response.”
Cleburne’s Plaza Theatre Company is a nonprofit organization with emphasis on musical theatre and plays. PlazaCo provides educational training for aspiring artists. Dudley Hall is located in historic downtown Cleburne at 305 S. Anglin Street.
