Historic Hershey entertainment venue announces renovations: When it will shut down and reopen

A historic performance venues in our region will shut its doors to allow for some modern updates.

Donald C. Papson, executive director of the M.S. Hershey Foundation, announced in an open letter that the Hershey Theatre would shut down in early 2025 for renovations.

“Since Hershey Theatre opened its doors in 1933, it has been a pillar of cultural enrichment in Hershey,“ Papson wrote. ”We are excited to share that Hershey Theatre will soon be embarking on an important one-year renovation project to update the facility, while preserving its history.”

The renovations will begin on January 20, 2025, and continue throughout the year.

Notable additions, updates and changes will include infrastructure improvements in “air-conditioning and electrical systems, enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity and re-configured parking areas.”

The plan is to reopen the theater in “early 2026,” the letter states, with a “robust Broadway season, as well as a variety of other world-class performers.”

“We appreciate your understanding as we work to honor Mr. Hershey’s legacy by revitalizing this iconic building for future generations to enjoy,” Papson wrote. “We are grateful for your continued patronage and we look forward to celebrating the next chapter of our history with you.”

To read the full announcement, visit the Hershey Theatre website here.