I'm a regular visitor to Auburn in the summer months and I never miss a production by the REV. The best theater you will find.

A fabulous theater space in middle of the Finger Lakes, and completely worth a drive from the Rochester area. I have been to this theater pre-covid in 2019 and after they opened again in 2021. Both fabulous shows (South Pacific and 42nd Street), both Broadway-level talent and professionalism. The theater itself is/was called the Merry Go Round Playhouse as it used to house a carousel. I believe the building is about 100 years old. The grounds are in a park and overlooking a lake, and there is a patio area and seating to enjoy wine and snacks before the show or during intermission. The restrooms (at least the women's) could use some extra attention and/or a renovation - they are small and not going to pass a stringent cleanliness check. Other than that, the experiences here have been a fun date night/road trip. If you like musical theater, this is a must do! read more

See all

My wife and I just returned home from the latest REV production: "CATH ME IF YOU CAN". First: The venue is one of the most beautiful buildings/theaters within 150 miles of Syracuse, NY. If you have never been....come....spend the day, have a picnic, go for a swim and finish your day off by watching a Broadway (type) play/musical. This theater is ultra modern, fantastic/comfortable seats and brand new air purification system. Second: This is our 15th time at the REV watching some of the most talented stars from all over the United States. This particular production of "Catch Me" showcased some of most brilliant singers and entertainers we have EVER seen. The power of the acting team, singers, dancers was just incredible. I urge you to get on the web site and buy some tickets to this show or one of the other five productions this season. Dress up to the nines or come as casual as you like, you will be welcomed and will NOT regret you choice. P.S. We have been to some of the biggest & most beautiful Broadway theaters in New York, Toronto & Kingston, Ont....The REV Theatre is at that level...ENJOY !!! read more

We took a day trip with covered wagon tours and Niagara scenic bus to the Old Merry go round theater which is now called the Rev. This was the first play to be shown with a full house of an audience since before Covid 19 shut them down. Everyone was so excited to finally see a play in person and not virtual! The play house isn't very big but has great history to it as it was once an old merry go round in the building that has been transformed into a theater with some original structures. Proof of vaccines were checked at the entrance but no masked required in the theater if you are vacillated. No paper play bills we're available due to Covid you just have to scan a code to get it on your phone. Awesome day spent at the theater and Sanders for lunch and after the play to Sherwood Inn for a wonderful dinner in Skaneateles. The next play up will be Foot Loose read more

See all

I saw Mamma Mia here (multiple times) and I had a GREAT time! The theater space is fantastic, didn't seem to be a bad seat, and the cast was incredible! 5 star review and I would definitely check out other shows here! read more

The Rev Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Auburn, New York

This is an amazing theater. I have been to many theaters in the US, NYC and Europe and this particular theater is truly unique. I think it was originally a very fancy wooden building built for a merry-go-round. It has been converted into a theater where the stage has been added to one site of the original merry-go-round building. So not really a theater in the round, but the round shape of the seating works fantastic. I was incredibly impressed by the production we saw: Grease. Cast, set, and even an orchestra, where all unbelievably well done. The playhouse is a real gem. I can't wait to go back. read more

I love this place, it's the best for theater. People that work there are very nice and helpful, very very clean and the seating is fantastic. Great places around there to eat at before you go to the theater or you can walk around by the lake. I have loved every show that I have been to and cannot wait to go to more...... and by the way the parking is great too, you do not have to park on the street at a meter twelve blocks away, the parking lot is right there. read more

Fun always a treat...the playhouse is wonderful and the plays are top notch with professional productions and the prices are reasonable. the location is lovely as well!! read more

I came to the Merry-Go-Round Playhouse for a production of Murder for Two. I have to admit that with this place being located outside of Syracuse in a small little city of Auburn, I truly did not expect much. I was absolutely blown away! The talent they had for this production kept me roaring with laughter and impressed with their skill! The place was easy to get to, parking was not a problem at all and there were even some refreshments offered for nominal prices. I enjoyed the air conditioned facilities and there did not seem to be a bad seat for visibility in the house. The acoustics of the venue allowed for perfect sound delivery to every patron as if the actor was talking directly to you. Although the seats were a little cramped, I think it added to the coziness of this rare find. As a person who has frequented other venues such as Syracuse Stage and the Landmark Theater, I am happy to report this place should be on everyone's lists of places to go for a good theater production! read more

Excellent venue, lovely setting and always pleased with the profession quality of the productions.

Not only is the theater itself beautiful, but they happen to get some AMAZING shows every year! Who knew that Auburn NY of all places would get broadway style shows? read more