Parker Theatre is opening its 2025 season with the production of “Persuasion,” a romantic comedy by Jane Austen. The production opens Feb. 1 and runs Friday and Saturday evenings, with Saturday matinees, through March 8.

“Persuasion” unfolds amidst the elegant society of early 19th-century England. Anne Elliot, a thoughtful and reserved young woman, finds herself at a crossroads when Captain Frederick Wentworth, a former suitor whom she was persuaded to reject years ago, reenters her life as a wealthy and successful naval officer. Set against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal regrets, “Persuasion” explores themes of love, regret, and second chances.

It is the first of six productions at Parker Theatre this year. The season schedule also includes “The Sting,” running March 29-May 5; “Noises Off!” playing May 24-June 28; “MacBeth,” running August 2-30; “Silent Sky,” playing September 13-October 11, and the favorite, “A Christmas Carol,” staging November 22-December 24.

Parker Theatre has a long history in the Salt Lake Valley. It was founded in 1985 by Thomas W. and Joanne M. Parker, originally known as City Rep. It performed at Abravanel Hall, Kingsbury Hall and the Capitol Theatre. For a time, a 100-seat theater was set up at the old ZCMI Mall in downtown Salt Lake City, and the Parkers moved to several locations before they purchased the historic Avalon movie theater in June of 2011. After an extensive remodeling project, the Parker Theatre opened at its current location in April 2012.

In 2016, the Parkers added an old fashion style soda fountain for concessions. The space was completely remodeled in an authentic 1930s style with fixtures and finishes to delight patrons. An on-site chef creates show themed treats along with house made brownies, cookies and handmade sodas. Detail and quality ingredients are a top priority at the Parker Theatre Soda Fountain, the owners said.

“The Studio” was added in 2018 when Parker Theatre purchased the building to the north of the main theatre and remodeled it with a lobby, classroom and a 99-seat theatre. The Studio hosts afterschool theatre school programs, summer camps and smaller performances such as the company’s Magic Shows. 

Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, with a 3:30 p.m. matinee each Saturday afternoon. Tickets are $31 for adults and $22 for youth 17 and under. Season tickets for all six shows are also available. No outside food or drink is permitted, and the age recommendation is for patrons 8 and older. Babies and toddlers are not permitted.

For tickets, go online to [email protected]. The theatre is located at 3605 South State Street in South Salt Lake. λ