Sight and Sound Theatres
Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Branson, Missouri
With two locations, Sight and Sound Theatres has earned a reputation as America’s foremost faith-based theater company, producing Broadway-quality musicals that tell stories from the Bible on a grand scale.
“Samson” premieres at the Lancaster location in March, and directors say it’s the most complex production in Sight and Sound history. “Moses” opens the same month in Branson. Both productions include original music and state-of-the-art costuming, sets, lighting and stage direction.
“We believe that we are called to bring the Gospel to life, and we take that responsibility very seriously,” said Maria Tennison, director of marketing and show design at Sight and Sound. “There’s no lack of research and prayer that goes into these stories. As soon as we feel called to one, it’s a three-year process until it sees the stage. It’s not a small feat.”
Because nearly a million people experience the epic stories of the Bible through Sight and Sound each year, producers say it’s their responsibility to get the stories right. Through “Samson” and “Moses,” the team hopes viewers get an intimate view of men who made mistakes yet accomplished God’s will in the end.
“The stories we are bringing to stage have eternal impact,” Tennison said. “It’s not just a good story; it’s entertainment that can change people’s lives.”
Special for Groups
Several groups return to Sight and Sound for each new production because the large venues fit any size. At each location, the 300-foot-wide stage wraps around three sides of the audience, and sets are built to huge proportions. There’s not a bad seat in the house.
Nearby Fun
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster is also a great stop for groups interested in discovering the Amish and Mennonite lifestyles. The county is known for its Amish tours and dinner shows. Branson, on the other hand, could be a multiday stop with its many attractions. Silver Dollar City is an American crafts theme park with rides and several artisans who create anything from glassware to candy. The Titanic Museum Attraction is a replica of the famous ship that offers hands-on experiences like walking the grand staircase and touching an iceberg. If groups are still in the mood for theater, the Showboat Branson Belle hosts dinner and a show as it floats up and down Table Rock Lake.
