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Barter Theatre

Just a short drive up Interstate 81 from Bristol is the Barter Theatre, one of America’s most beloved theatrical institutions. It was founded during the Great Depression when Robert Porterfield, an enterprising young actor, hit upon the idea of bartering produce to gain admission to see a play. Its motto was, “With vegetables you cannot sell, you can buy a good laugh.”

Many famous actors started their careers at the Barter, including Gregory Peck, Patricia Neal, Ernest Borgnine, and Ned Beatty.

Today the Barter Theatre is still offering splendid theatrical productions to more than 160,000 visitors a year. Its presentations on two stages run the gamut from Evita to Sleeping Beauty to The Who’s Tommy.

Information and schedules at www.bartertheatre.com.