History of Shows

Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre was founded in 1987 by Thomas and Deborah Prather. Prior to opening Dutch Apple, Tom and Debbie were taking theatrical productions across Pennsylvania. They were producing over 40 shows per year in Lancaster, York, Harrisburg, Hazleton, Selinsgrove, Shamokin Dam, Chadds Ford, Williamsport, and Philadelphia. The Prathers became a true theatrical family as their sons, Will and David, became more and more involved with the family business.
By the mid-1980s, the family was ready to settle in one location and have audiences come to them. Eventually they drew up the plans (the first draft being on a Denny’s napkin) and the theatre was built right next to what is now the Heritage Hotel. In 1993, Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre was opened in Ft. Myers, Florida and APEX Touring, an international touring company, was opened in 2008.

Over the years, ownership was handed down from Tom and Debbie to their sons, Will and David. Will is currently the CEO of Prather Productions, which includes Dutch Apple, Broadway Palm, and APEX Touring. Since the beginning, Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre has offered top quality productions, award-winning food, and exceptional service to all patrons. Found in the heart of Amish Country, it features a simple yet sophisticated charm you will not find in most theatres. Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre produces eight mainstage shows, along with children’s theatre performances, summer camps, and concerts throughout the year as well.

2025

Murder for Two
Waitress
Fiddler on the Roof
We Will Rock You
The Wizard of Oz
The Buddy Holly Story
A Chorus Line
Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn

2024

Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap
The Addams Family
Ragtime
The Full Monty
The Sound of Music
Jersey Boys
Hairspray
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

2023

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express
Sister Act
Footloose
ELVIS: A Musical Revolution
Disney’s Newsies
Guys and Dolls
Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville
A Christmas Carol

2022

Beehive
Singin’ in the Rain
Rock of Ages
Great Balls of Fire
Disney’s The Little Mermaid
Chicago
Saturday Night Fever
Elf The Musical

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