For nearly a hundred years, Philadelphia was mainly known as a “tryout” town. New York producers would try out material here before opening on Broadway. These days it’s more likely a play will originate here. The Wilma Theatre has produced the American premieres of two Tom Stoppard plays that were hits on London’s West End, but have never played New York. InterAct hosts a new play reading every January which supplies work to regional theaters across the country. Keep an eye out for anything by Brat Productions, a young edgy company that often stages strong works in a bar.

The first ten days of September, the Philadelphia Fringe Festival takes over the Old City district with a mix of local acts and visiting troupes from the Edinburgh, Toronto and New York. There are still national touring companies that perform big Broadway musicals at the Merriam and the Forrest, maintaining a healthy balance of new and recognized work.

From the Pennsylvania Ballet to The Philadelphia Dance Company (known as Philadanco), the dance performance scene here is low profile, but substantial. The city often acts as a lab for companies that are seen and celebrated in New York or Washington. Once again, because of the numerous collegiate dance programs, there are always visiting professional and resident performers to see.