I recently had the opportunity to tour the Appell Center for the Performing Arts in downtown York, which gave me a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the city’s premier cultural venues.
The facility features two historic theaters—the 1,262-seat Strand Theatre, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025, and the 450-seat Capitol Theatre, which first opened its doors in 1906.
The Appell Center itself is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire, educate, and entertain the York community through professional performing arts and educational programming, hosting hundreds of events each year and welcoming thousands of school-age children for educational programs and student performances.
Directions & Ticket Info
The Appell Center is located at 50 North George Street, York, PA 17401.
Convenient garage parking is available just two blocks away at the Market Street Car Park (see map above), and if you’re visiting from out of town like I was, the wonderful Hotel Yorktowne sits directly across the street from the garage.
For the most up-to-date information on upcoming shows and ticket prices, be sure to visit the Appell Center’s official website.
Inside the Appell Center | What I Experienced During My Visit
During the tour, I had the chance to explore both of the Appell Center’s historic theaters.
The larger of the two is the 1,262-seat Strand Theatre, an ornate venue which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025.
With its elegant Adams-style architecture and grand interior, the Strand serves as the home of the York Symphony Orchestra and hosts many of the center’s largest performances.
Walking through the auditorium and onto the stage offered a rare perspective on what audiences normally only see from their seats.
Our group was then invited backstage, where performers prepare before stepping into the spotlight.
Seeing the dressing rooms and backstage corridors provided a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world that most visitors never experience.
We also had the opportunity to explore the orchestra pit, where musicians accompany symphony concerts and theatrical productions.
The tour continued next door at the smaller Capitol Theatre, a 450-seat venue that first opened its doors in 1906.
The Capitol retains much of its historic charm and is home to a fully restored 1927 Mighty Wurlitzer organ that is still played before (and sometimes during) movie screenings.
After dinner that evening at the nearby Fig & Barrel Pub (which was excellent, by the way), I returned to the Capitol Theatre to catch a screening of Charlie Chaplin’s silent film The Kid, accompanied live on the Mighty Wurlitzer organ for an authentic silent movie-era experience.
Final Thoughts
After touring the facility, it was easy to see why the Appell Center is considered the heart of York’s performing arts scene.
The combination of historic theaters, talented performers, and a packed schedule of events ensures there is always something exciting happening here.
Whether you’re attending a concert, a film, or a live stage production, a visit to the Appell Center offers a memorable cultural experience in downtown York.
Nearby Attractions
19 Must-See Attractions in York County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near the Appell Center.
A Smarter Way to Explore Pennsylvania
Explore Pennsylvania like a pro with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map, showcasing over 1,000 memorable destinations I’ve personally visited across the Keystone State.
Did you enjoy this article?
If so, be sure to like and follow PA Bucket List on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Pinterest to stay up-to-date on my latest write-ups about the best things to see and do in Pennsylvania!
Click on any of the icons below to get connected to PA Bucket List on social media.
