The Ritz Celebrates 115th Anniversary

The Ritz Theater & Performing Arts Center, at the heart of downtown Scranton, opened over a century ago – Labor Day – and was first known as “The Poli,” NEPA’s premier vaudeville theater which hosted the best performers of all time – Harry Houdini, W.C. Fields, Mae West, Ray Bolger, George Burns, Gracie Allen, Fannie Brice, Will Rogers & many more! This incredible building with its rich history is entering its 115^th anniversary in September and is currently the home of the Creative and Performing Arts Academy (CaPAA) of NEPA – a vibrant arts program for kids, teens and adults serving over 300 students from all over NEPA.

Students come to the Ritz for a variety of classes in theatre, music, and dance in addition to over two dozen productions throughout the year including The Ritz Mainstage Players, a semi-professional audition-based company offering full musicals and plays for all ages.  We are so thrilled that performers of all ages can still experience the magic of this classic vaudeville theater nearly 115 years after Sylvester Poli first opened the doors on Wyoming Avenue. The Ritz Theater’s legacy continues to shine brightly in downtown Scranton!

This family-owned operation has become a cornerstone of NEPA’s arts community and is committed to building a positive, safe, and welcoming atmosphere for friends, families, and neighbors to celebrate the arts for generations to come. 

Come and Celebrate with a slice of Birthday Cake!!