About Genesius Theatre

Genesius Theatre is a Performance Venue that specializes in Musical Theatre with professional live orchestras. Genesius performs 10 productions annually, 3 of which feature kids / teens exclusively. The theatre also doubles as a learning center offering summer theatre classes annually. Genesius offers state of the art lighting and modern effects. You will feel immersed in their up-close atmosphere of the performances; the true “Genesius Difference”.

As a 501C3 Non-Profit Organization, Genesius relies on generous donations within the community from people like you. We trust in the power of this inspiring & dynamic medium to transform the artists who create it, the audiences who enjoy it, and the patrons who support it.

Founded in 1971 by Jane Simmon Miller, Genesius Theatre produces Broadway-style musicals, drama, and children’s theatre in a unique and intimate setting. In 1974 we moved to our current physical site at 153 North 10th Street in Reading, Pennsylvania, where we produce shows with live orchestras and the highest technical and lighting production values.

Genesius continues to fulfill our founder's vision of a theatre group where young people can participate, learn and grow in every aspect of show production, having served as a training ground for alumni who have had career success on Broadway and regional theatre and other entertainment fields. Three generations of our alumni are currently working in the entertainment industry and include actors, dancers, singers, musicians, directors, producers, playwrights, educators, light and sound technicians, set designers, and various other behind-the-scenes roles.

Our theatre also provides an artistic outlet for members of the community to express themselves on-stage and off, and experience the feeling of family that theatre creates in the community. The Genesius family includes a truly rich cross-section of our community who enrich our region with their dedication to nurturing the arts and involving our youth.  Regardless of age, life experience or previous exposure to community theatre, our goal is to see families and friends come together for a shared experience that leaves them with an excitement for the performing arts. Each production is intricately created—from the finely-stitched costumes-to the design, build and staging of our sets. Meticulous attention is given to every detail by our dedicated volunteers and community participants.

Our Core Values:

Artistic Excellence: We honor our audience and our theater colleagues by aspiring to excellence in every performance.

Community: We seek to be recognized as a “jewel” in our community and we resolve to earn that distinction by respecting, involving, and entertaining our Berks County neighbors.

Opportunity: We assure that every child or adult who wants to be involved with Genesius Theatre has the opportunity to do so.

Diversity: We embrace inclusion and actively seek to reflect diversity in every aspect of our operations and productions.

Education: We embrace lifelong learning and we are committed to providing the highest standards of educational opportunities to our Genesius community.

Fiscal Responsibility: We are grateful for the support we receive. Genesius would not be able to exist without it. We respect those who support us by adhering to strict fiscal procedures that provide transparency and reflect a system of checks and balances.