The Players Ring Theatre—affectionately known as “The Ring”—offers unforgettable live theatre in the heart of Portsmouth’s historic South End. Tucked beside Prescott Park and Strawbery Banke Museum, just steps from the Piscataqua River, our intimate 75-seat theatre invites audiences remarkably close to the action. No two visits look quite the same: the seating, stage, scenery and even the journey into the performance are continually reimagined, creating an experience that feels immediate, immersive and wonderfully unique.
Founded in 1992, the Players Ring is a nonprofit theatre known throughout Northern New England for high-quality productions, imaginative reinterpretations of classic stories and a deep commitment to new work. Our year-round programming includes comedies, dramas, mysteries, original plays and special events featuring exceptional local and regional artists. Select productions throughout the season are created especially for children and families.
Our beloved annual production of A Christmas Carol has become a Seacoast holiday tradition, bringing Charles Dickens’ timeless story to life through an inventive, visually distinctive adaptation filled with humor, heart and theatrical surprises. Other family-friendly performances and visiting productions are offered during the year; families are encouraged to check individual event listings for age recommendations and content information.
Young people can also step into the creative process through RingRISING, our new theatre education initiative for performers ages 7–19. Participants audition for an original Players Ring production and then take part in several weeks of classes and rehearsals led by experienced theatre artists, culminating in public performances. Along the way, students develop skills in acting, singing, movement, stage presence and the creative use of performance space. Just as importantly, they learn to collaborate as an ensemble, communicate confidently, solve problems creatively, support one another—and experience the joy of building something extraordinary together.
Whether your family is discovering live theatre for the first time, continuing a treasured holiday tradition or raising a young performer eager to find their place onstage, the Players Ring offers an experience that is personal, playful and alive. Come through the green door and discover how much imagination can fit inside one little theatre.
