While big-name, Broadway productions are always entertaining, it can also be nice to spend an evening at a cozier theater where the setting is more intimate and the worst seat in the house is only a dozen rows back.

Central Arkansas is home to several small theaters that feature a variety of shows all year round, including a dinner theater and community theaters.

Here are three with shows taking place Little Rock and North Little Rock in April to check out for your next parents’ night out.

Murry’s Dinner Playhouse

This theater takes your whole date night and puts it one place, as you can enjoy dinner, drinks and dessert while you watch the show. Dinner is served buffet-style with options varying depending on the show. Each night features entrees, a carving station, sides, a salad bar and a spread of delicious desserts. Arrive early to the show to fill your plate and a waiter will bring take drink orders throughout the evening.

“Little Shop of Horrors” is on stage at Murry’s through April 21 and then beginning on April 24 “Southern Fried Nuptials” starts its run. Adult tickets range from $33-$37 for the show and dinner; drinks cost extra. Visit MurrysDP.com or call (501) 562-3131 for more information or to purchase tickets. The theater is located at 6323 Colonel Glenn Road in Little Rock.


The Weekend Theater

Head downtown for an evening out at this theater celebrating its 25th year during the 2017-18 season. The nonprofit organization is a black-box theater that they call “New York in character” with an apartment upstairs and pizza joint/microbrewery across the street, perfect for dinner before the show.

From April 6-22, patrons can enjoy “Assassins,” a musical based on the book by John Wiedman. Shows hit the stage each Friday-Sunday during the musical’s run. Adult tickets are $16 for dramas and $20 for musicals.

Visit WeekendTheater.org or call (501) 374-3761 for more information. The Weekend Theater is located at 1001 W. 7th St. in Little Rock.


Argenta Community Theater

It’s not just plays at Argenta Community Theater — they also host film screenings, book readings and other events. The theater seats just over 200 people, giving everyone in the house a great view of the stage. Set in the heart of North Little Rock, the venue is surrounded by restaurants, a wine bar and a coffee shop for plenty of options for pre- and post-show dining.

The classic novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” comes to life on stage from April 18-28. Tickets are $20-$30 and more information is available at ArgentaCommunityTheater.org. The theater is located at 405 Main St. in North Little Rock.