Sight and Sound Theater

Thanks to an exchange of services my husband has gotten free tickets to Sight and Sound for a number of years now.  In fact, this will be the first year we won’t go because we’ve seen all the shows and “Jonah” is returning for an encore season.  I think it is safe to say that Sight and Sound is probably the most popular tourist attraction in Lancaster County with maybe the exception of HersheyPark.  If you live in Southeastern PA, you must visit at least once to this one-of-a-kind theater.  In fact, tour buses from all over the country visit daily, so consider it a privilege to be within a short drive of this special attraction.  Stories from the Bible come to life in dramatic fashion, in stunning visual display, using state-of-the-art technology, and original live musical score, leaving visitors awe-inspired!

From the moment you drive up to the parking lot and until you leave, you will be mesmerized by…well…all the sights and sounds!  Every detail has been attended to, and it even smells lovely with the aroma of roasted and glazed almonds wafting throughout the lobby.  The building itself is impressive, looking other-worldly, in the middle of Amish country, sort of a Byzantine Eastern Orthodox look.  Everything is big…the building, the stage, the number of actors, the size of the sets, the animals.   Probably the most unique aspect of Sight and Sound is their use of space, incorporating the sides of the theater into part of the stage as well as the aisles and even the ceiling…sort of an IMAX theater in living color.  The sets are phenomenal, carefully crafted with meticulous details, and realistic portrayals.  While the acting and depth of story may not match Broadway, I would argue the stage and sets go above and beyond.
My children always enjoy our visits, and the day is greeted by much excitement and anticipation.  I can’t imagine anyone getting bored during a show, even my normally fidgety one-year old (at the time) Lilah kept her eyes glued to the stage.  We appreciated the wholesome and thought-provoking storylines, simple enough for a child, yet ageless wisdom for all.  Jon and I often found ourselves discussing the deeper meaning from the text or it would inspire us to research the actual Biblical narrative to compare with the artistic liberties taken.  Even if you are not part of a faith family, I believe you can enjoy and identify with the drama of the human experience displayed. 

This 2000+ seat auditorium, with a balcony and stadium-style seating gives everyone a good seat, so I wouldn’t worry too much about where you are seated.  The children enjoyed being up high because it seems more exciting.  The typical program runs about 2 ½ hours with a 15 minute intermission.  During intermission, you will have a chance to use the restrooms (women’s line gets long), and purchase concessions in the lobby.  Make sure you take some photos in the lobby, as there is an impressive center statuary display of the current show that makes a great backdrop for family pics.

After the show, it has become our tradition to eat dinner at The Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn located literally in the front lawn of the theater.  A large buffet containing traditional Pennsylvania Dutch foods chases the munchies away post show, and we always go home stuffed, both with good food and great family memories.

Admission:  $54/adult, $21/children 12 & under, FREE/children 3 & under who can sit on your lap

Hours:  Varies depending on the day but generally 11AM, 3PM, and 7PM.  Open Tues.-Sat.

Sight and Sound Theater

300 Hartman Bridge Road

Ronks, PA 17572

(800) 377-1277

See www.sight-sound.com for complete details and to purchase tickets!

Day Tripper Mom

Jeanette Knaub is a wife and an at-home mom to four children; Jackson (17), Eliana (15), Amalia (13), and Lilah (8). During the school year, she works part time as a Classroom Aide. In what little spare time is left, she enjoys volunteering at church and community organizations, reading, running, and of course researching and blogging about her family’s next trip!

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