"To continue the tradition of employing and educating artists by encouraging them to explore and hone their craft through the art of live theatre." That's the mission of The Candlelight Theatre, a dinner-theater venue that's been part of the Wilmington landscape since 1969.

Located about 8 miles from ResideBPG, this not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization produces between five and six "Mainstage" productions every year, in genres that span comedy to musicals. The 2016 season, for example, has seen productions of Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Secret Garden, and Arsenic and Old Lace. The Music Man will debut on July 16, followed by productions of Hairspray and Christmas by Candlelight later in the year. Giving new meaning to "dinner and a show," The Candlelight Theatre opens up a full buffet dinner during every production. The menu varies from show to show, but there's always a full-service cash bar on-site, as well as a wine list to accompany your meal. Leave room for a brownie sundae!

Every play features the talent of local actors, so if you're hoping to soak up the limelight yourself, be sure to audition for a part! Or if you're looking to hone your skills, consider enrolling in The Candlelight Theatre's NYOAA (Not Your Ordinary Arts Academy) Musical Theatre Ensemble. Younger thespians can sign up for one of the theater's summer camps. Fun fact: Film star Bruce Willis got his start here!