Prima Theatre

(Theatrical) oxygen for the soul. Born in Lancaster. Shared with the world.

Life moves fast. The noise is constant.

Prima creates moments to breathe, to feel, to remember what it means to be alive...together.

We believe nourishment isn’t only physical: it’s emotional, creative, and communal. Our work feeds the soul, sparking joy, awe, and connection through live experiences that make life sing.

This ExtraGive, your generosity fuels Fresh Works and Arts Access, helping bold new stories take shape right here in Lancaster and ensuring everyone can share in the beauty of live performance.

Together, we’re shaping a place where art connects us, joy becomes common ground, and wonder still has a home.

Who We Are

Founded by Mitch and Diana Nugent, Prima Theatre began in 2010 with a bold idea: create fresh theatrical experiences that invigorate lives.

What started as intimate cabarets in Lancaster cafés has grown into a dynamic cultural hub in the city’s West End, a boutique theatre where every seat is close to the action, and every performance feels personal.

Today, Prima offers a mix of contemporary theatre, immersive concerts, and special events that bring people together through beauty, humor, and heart.

Community Impact

From the very beginning, Prima has crafted experiences that breathe fresh life into Lancaster; stories that awaken wonder, laughter, and connection. That creative spark has always been part of who we are, and now we’re building on it with clear focus and purpose.

As Prima continues to grow, we’re expanding two vital areas of impact. Through Fresh Works, we’re developing bold new plays and musicals born right here in Lancaster; works that lift our region artistically, culturally, and economically as they move beyond our stage. And through Arts Access, we’re ensuring that this beauty belongs to everyone, that every neighbor, regardless of circumstance, can share in the joy and belonging that live performance brings.

Because feeding the soul of a community means creating experiences that include, inspire, and connect us all.

Good News Highlights 

🎭 32% audience growth since before the pandemic.

🌟 55% first-time guests in the most recent season.

❤️ 1 in 4 patrons comes from underserved groups.

🤝 Championing inclusion and access inviting every voice, every body, every heart to belong.

🏆 Recipient of the Innovation in Nonprofit Leadership and Nonprofit Programs Excellence awards.

💡 Creator of Illumination, Lancaster’s most beloved holiday concert experience.

✍️ Home of Fresh Works, including We’ll Get Back to You, the original Rob Bell comedy developed at Prima and now moving to NYC.

Why It Matters

Prima is just getting started.

Your gift fuels Fresh Works that shape the future of theatre.

Your gift expands Arts Access so everyone has a seat at the table.

When you give to Prima, you’re not just supporting performances.

You’re fueling joy. You’re cultivating belonging. You’re helping Lancaster shine as a creative home where wonder still has a place to grow.

✨ GIVE BOLDLY. INVIGORATE LANCASTER.