Barter Theatre

Barter Theatre is off I-81 exit 17 at 127 W. Main St. One of the country’s oldest professional regional theaters, the “State Theatre of Virginia” was founded in 1933 on the theory that drama could be bartered for food. During the Depression, Robert Porterfield convinced 22 Broadway actors that it was better to eat in Virginia than to starve in New York. Though cash is now the accepted medium of payment, Porterfield’s original theater offered tickets in exchange for milk, ham, chicken and other provisions.

Along with new works, time-honored dramas, comedies and musicals are presented year-round on two stages; spring, summer and fall repertories allow patrons to see four shows in 2 days.

Food is available.