Maine’s Live Summer Theater is the Oldest in the Country

A historic theater nestled in the Maine woods is the oldest continuously running summer theater in the U.S.A.

Maine's Oldest Summer Theater is a Tradition for Many

There's something about a stage filled with actors, sets, and beautiful costumes that I love. I was in the drama club at Brewer High School, and even directed a production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown."

READ MORE: This Historic Maine Inn has Been Welcoming Visitors for Over 300 Years

But that love for live theater wasn't something that just happened. When I was growing up, my family would go to the Lakewood Theater in Madison at least once a year.

It's impossible not to fall in love with Lakewood.

Lakewood Theater in Madison, Maine, has Old World Charm

White columns grace the front of the historic building, which was built in 1898, although the theater didn't really get going until 1901.

The two buildings, theater and restaurant, sit on the shores of Lake Wesserunsett, so during intermission, patrons can take a walk along the wooded grounds and look out over the water.

Dinner at Lakewood Restaurant before the show has always seemed to me like the ultimate date night.

Maine's Lakewood Theater Announces Its 2026 Summer Season

Now run as a non-profit, the theater's 126th season is about to begin, and they've announced their summer line-up.

The full list of this summer's shows, and information about upcoming auditions, can be found on the theater's website.

I think I'll have to add this to my summer schedule and revisit an old friend. Lakewood Theater.