When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Plan-B Theatre Company
Why Plan-B Theatre Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Plan-B Theatre Company, located in Salt Lake City, Utah, stands out as the smallest fully professional theatre company in the area, with a remarkable dedication to producing socially conscious and unique theatre created exclusively by Utah playwrights. Established in 1991 and incorporated in 1995, this company has cultivated a reputation for its unwavering focus on new, boundary-pushing plays that explore contemporary issues with intellectual depth and emotional resonance. As a resident company at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, Plan-B offers an intimate yet impactful theatrical experience that fosters connection and thoughtful conversation among friends and audiences. The company has produced nearly 100 world premieres, including groundbreaking works by Asian American, African American, Latina, and Persian playwrights, reflecting a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Beyond staging performances, Plan-B embraces accessibility with features such as large-print scripts, audio and digital playbills, ASL-interpreted and sensory-friendly performances, creating an inviting environment for all to engage with meaningful storytelling. Its bold programming and awards, including multiple honors from Equality Utah and recognition from both the Governor and Mayor of Salt Lake City, further emphasize its role as a vital cultural hub and an inspiring meeting place for friends and theatre lovers alike.
Here's what people think of Plan-B Theatre Company
As of recent, Plan-B Theatre Company holds a 5-star rating based on 10 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Plan-B Theatre Company for its exceptional dedication to presenting socially conscious plays that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally powerful. Visitors appreciate the intimate atmosphere of the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, which enhances feelings of closeness and engagement during performances. Positive reviews highlight the company’s strong commitment to local playwrights and diverse voices, noting how the productions often challenge societal norms and promote awareness on critical issues such as systemic bias and discrimination. Reviewers also commend the accessibility measures provided, including ASL interpretation and sensory-friendly performances, allowing a broad audience to experience the theatre comfortably. Some critiques, while few given the 5.0 rating, mention occasional logistical challenges typical of smaller venues, such as limited seating. Nonetheless, these issues are generally overshadowed by the quality of work and passion exhibited by both the company and its staff. Overall, reviews reflect a deep appreciation for Plan-B Theatre’s ability to combine meaningful content with an engaging theatrical experience, establishing it as a beloved destination for those seeking thoughtful and enriching entertainment in Salt Lake City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Emma Thompson
Fantastic shows that ask important questions to their performers, designers, and audience members.
Stacie Hanson
The venue is clean while the staff is always friendly and helpful handling ticket or answering any questions. There is not a bad seat in any of the performing spaces. Ticket prices are a bargain with the quality of seasoned actors.
Stephanie Larsen, LCSW
This theatre is a rare gem in this city. The productions are always creative and thought provoking. The Artistic Director, Jerry Rapier, is not only talented he's a pleasure to work in every capacity. If you are not patronizing this theatre you are missing out in many ways.
Nicola Nelson
Never know what you will see at Plan B but it always makes you think. Tackles hard subjects in unique ways.
Jessie Bushman
Great way to support local artists and have a thought-provoking night.
How to reach Plan-B Theatre Company
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Website: None
Why Plan-B Theatre Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Plan-B Theatre Company with your friends?
Gathering at Plan-B Theatre Company in Salt Lake City offers a uniquely intimate and memorable experience ideal for groups of friends or family seeking both entertainment and meaningful connection. Despite its relatively small physical space, the theatre's atmosphere feels expansive, providing a creative and welcoming environment that encourages shared emotional journeys through contemporary storytelling. Visitors often describe being swept into absorbing moments where time seems to stand still, making every performance an event to remember. The theatre is known for producing new works that spark discovery and discussion, perfect for groups who enjoy exploring innovative and thought-provoking art together. Additionally, its central location in Salt Lake City offers easy parking and proximity to several eateries and pubs, allowing groups to extend their gatherings beyond the show and enjoy lively conversations over food and drinks. The warm, attentive staff further enhance the experience, creating a hospitable vibe that makes visitors feel genuinely cared for. Whether you want to revel in fresh theatrical narratives or simply spend quality time with loved ones in a culturally rich setting, Plan-B Theatre Company is an excellent rallying point for shared experiences.
What activities can you enjoy together at Plan-B Theatre Company?
Plan-B Theatre Company’s programming uniquely caters to diverse tastes and offers various experiences perfect for group meetups. The main attraction is, of course, the live theatrical performances which range from new, original works to innovative interpretations of classic plays. For example, audiences have enjoyed powerful productions exploring complex social themes such as mental health in children and teachers, or race and identity, which prompt meaningful conversations among attendees. Such performances not only entertain but engage the audience intellectually and emotionally, making them great opportunities for friends to bond over shared insights and reflections.
Moreover, Plan-B actively tours educational plays designed for school children, highlighting its community-oriented mission, which can be an enriching outing for families with kids. The touring shows often emphasize mental health awareness and social justice themes, encouraging empathy and understanding, making visits both entertaining and educational. Besides attending performances, groups can participate in post-show discussions or workshops sometimes offered by Plan-B, which deepen the theatrical engagement and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas among attendees—perfect for groups who appreciate cultural dialogue.
Why is Plan-B Theatre Company's venue perfect for a group meetup?
The venue's intimacy at Plan-B Theatre Company makes it particularly conducive to group experiences. With a smaller space, everyone in the audience feels close to the stage, creating a shared sense of immediacy and involvement that large theaters may lack. This proximity fosters a collective atmosphere where friends can exchange quiet reactions and feel emotionally connected not only to the performance but also to each other. The theatre’s layout encourages interaction before and after shows, helping groups socialize and share impressions easily.
Additionally, the theatre’s location in the heart of Salt Lake City is surrounded by numerous inviting pubs, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to extend your meetup for pre-show dinners or post-performance conversations. This convenience transforms a night at the theatre from a simple outing into a full social experience. The friendliness of the theatre’s staff, who greet visitors warmly and accommodate their needs with thoughtful gestures such as providing high-quality masks, contributes further to making visitors feel at ease in a communal setting. The space’s blend of welcoming humility and rich cultural offering strikes a balance that allows group meetups to be both comfortable and stimulating.
What kind of performances does Plan-B Theatre Company specialize in?
Plan-B Theatre Company has developed a reputation for producing new, cutting-edge theatrical works that often explore contemporary themes and complex social issues. Unlike companies that rely heavily on well-known classics, Plan-B invites audiences to encounter fresh narratives, where symbolism and layered meanings await personal discovery. This approach ensures that each show is unique, offering groups a chance to experience something novel and unexpected together.
Their repertoire includes bold pieces that tackle difficult subjects such as race, gender, and mental health, often challenging the audience to reflect on these topics through human stories and dynamic characters. For instance, productions have engaged deeply with themes of racial injustice and the lived experiences of marginalized communities, sparking thought-provoking discussions post-show. Plan-B also embraces gender fluidity and nontraditional casting, adding further layers of contemporary relevance and inclusivity to their work.
Educationally, Plan-B reaches out via touring series aimed at children and schools, demonstrating its commitment to accessible, socially conscious storytelling. This variety in content and approach keeps the theatre’s offerings dynamic, enriching group visits with emotional complexity and intellectual stimulation.
How does Plan-B Theatre Company enhance the overall group experience beyond performances?
Beyond the stage, Plan-B Theatre Company ensures a holistic cultural outing by fostering a sense of community connection and accessibility. The theatre’s staff are known for their warm hospitality, greeting guests with genuine smiles and thoughtful care, such as offering upgraded masks to ensure health safety and comfort. This attention to visitor well-being creates a welcoming environment ideal for groups to relax and enjoy their shared experience without distractions.
Post-performance, groups can often engage in facilitated discussions or Q&A sessions with cast members or directors, opportunities that deepen understanding and provide spaces for personal exchange. These interactive moments can be particularly rewarding for groups looking to unpack the performance’s themes together, turning the outing into a shared intellectual and emotional journey.
Moreover, the theatre’s location surrounded by dining and entertainment options encourages groups to socialize before or after the show, making the visit a social event that extends beyond the production itself. Whether planning a casual get-together or a special occasion, Plan-B Theatre Company supports a satisfying outing that balances artistic enrichment with friendship and fun.
What makes Plan-B Theatre Company a must-visit cultural spot in Salt Lake City?
Plan-B Theatre Company stands out as a vital cultural venue in Salt Lake City due to its commitment to innovative theater and community engagement. It offers a rare blend of intimate, immersive theatrical experiences that illuminate contemporary social issues, inviting audiences to not only witness but also participate in the exploration of important human stories. This makes it especially appealing to groups who value meaningful art and stimulating conversations.
Its strategic downtown location, easy parking, and proximity to eateries create a seamless experience for visitors seeking both culture and convenience. The friendly, inclusive atmosphere and the high praise of its performances underscore its status as a welcoming, well-regarded institution. Whether you are a theater enthusiast or someone looking for a unique and enriching way to gather with friends or family, Plan-B Theatre Company provides a creative hub that fosters connection, learning, and enjoyment alike.
In short, Plan-B Theatre Company is more than just a venue for plays—it is a vibrant community space where art and friendship intersect, making it an exceptional choice for your next group outing.