Sight & Sound Theatres has been captivating audiences with its awe-inspiring productions for over four decades. What began as a humble endeavor by Glenn and Shirley Eshelman has grown into a beloved family-owned organization that brings the Bible to life through unforgettable theatrical experiences.
Glenn Eshelman’s love for the arts began at a young age, growing up on a dairy farm in rural Lancaster County. Inspired by the beauty surrounding him, he started painting landscapes and eventually discovered a passion for photography. In 1964, after presenting his scenic photography at a local church using a slide projector, a turntable for musical underscore, and a microphone for narration, the overwhelming audience response marked the unofficial birth of Sight & Sound.
As the Eshelmans’ multimedia presentations gained popularity across the United States, they established a permanent home for their productions. In 1976, the Living Waters Theatre opened its doors, and Sight & Sound Theatres was officially born. Over the years, the shows evolved to incorporate more live theatrical elements, culminating in the debut of their first full-length Biblical production, “Behold the Lamb,” in 1987.
The success of Sight & Sound Theatres led to the opening of a larger, state-of-the-art facility in 1991, known as the Entertainment Centre. However, tragedy struck in 1997 when a devastating fire destroyed the building. Undeterred by this setback, Glenn and Shirley persevered, and just 18 months later, a new 2,000-seat theater with a massive 300-foot panoramic stage was ready to welcome audiences. The inaugural show in this new space was the iconic production of “Noah,” which immersed the audience in a spectacular ark filled with animals.
Sight & Sound Theatres continued to grow, and in 2008, a second location opened in the picturesque Ozark Mountains of Branson, Missouri. Today, the organization has honed its craft of bringing Biblical stories to life, premiering a new show every other year and designing each production to travel between Lancaster and Branson.
What sets Sight & Sound Theatres apart is its unwavering commitment to its mission: presenting the Gospel of Jesus Christ and sowing the Word of God into the lives of its customers, guests, and employees through inspirational productions. The theater experience is truly unparalleled, featuring a cast of 50 actors, state-of-the-art technology, live animals, and original music composed and recorded by world-class orchestras.
Every aspect of a Sight & Sound production is meticulously crafted, from the intricately designed costumes to the grand staging of massive sets. The attention to detail is evident in every moment, transporting the audience into the heart of the story. The shows are designed to be universally appealing, regardless of age, life experience, or familiarity with the Bible, making it an ideal destination for families and friends to create lasting memories together.
As you plan your visit to Lancaster County, be sure to add Sight & Sound Theatres to your must-see list. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, the experience promises to be both uplifting and unforgettable. Prepare to be inspired by the power of storytelling, the passion of the performers, and the timeless messages of hope and faith that have made Sight & Sound Theatres a cherished part of the Lancaster County community for over 40 years.
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