Downtown theatre reopening brings variety, excitement to diverse downtown
WYTHEVILLE, VIRGINIA–FEBRUARY 2023–Wytheville, Virginia, is known as a one-of-a-kind destination. First, it is the only Wytheville in the world. And beyond that, it is home to a unique collection of attractions that celebrate the arts and the culture of the region.
Wytheville gained fame as a convenient stop for travelers at the intersection of Interstates I-77 and I-81. But this Southwest Virginia destination has also become known for its vibrant downtown and one-of-a-kind attractions. And now, its reputation is growing as a place for those who love the arts.
With 2023, the storied Millwald Theatre (205 West Main Street Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-625-6953) has new life and is bringing a variety of performances and experiences to Wytheville’s downtown. Built in 1928, the Millwald was a popular Vaudeville and “moving pictures” venue and served for decades as a hub for social activities. In 2003, the venue celebrated its 75th anniversary and was hailed as “Virginia’s longest continuously running theater.” After its closing in 2006, an effort began to re-invent the Millwald, and today a $4.5 million investment has returned it to its roots, as a multi-purpose arts center, with more opportunities than ever.
Beginning with its refurbished marquee, the historic venue has undergone both a restoration and expansion. The main theatre and its original balcony have been reconstructed into a 500-seat auditorium with a new sound booth and VIP viewing box. Additionally, 7,500 square feet of space includes classrooms and offices that will support a variety of arts programing. Classic movies and musical performances will fill the theatre’s calendar and the classroom programs support art education and more.
The Millwald joins a diverse slate of arts offerings in Wytheville’s thriving downtown. Among the local restaurants, shops and boutiques, there are several fine art and crafts venues, as well.
Laurel Creek Pottery (420 East Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-240-0442) is a pottery studio and folk-art gallery where artist Laura Abbey invites visitors to experience the artistry and heritage of the region. In addition to her creations, Abbey displays a variety of other artists’ work and hosts demonstrations and hands-on workshops.
Formato Fine Arts (100 West Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-920-4004) gallery is where owner Lily Formato can often be seen painting in the front windows on Main Street. The gallery features exhibits of emerging and established local artists’ work, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography and performance art.
Rose Cottage School of Art (570 East Spring Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-620-0303) visitors are invited to connect with their own artistic spirit and make unique creations of their own. The school hosts fine art and music classes, paint nights and a slate of creative workshops and camps. Rose Cottage also hosts a variety of visiting artisans’ workshops throughout the year.
For dining, there are three quirky and lovable locations most recommended by the locals. Petals Wine Bar (160 Tazewell Street, Wytheville, Virginia, 24382; 276-227-0031) is downtown’s newest pre-theatre stop. Wytheville native Teresa Campbell recently expanded her flower and wine shop into a full-service wine bar offering varietals from around the world accompanied by a fun menu of cheese board pairings and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Skeeter’s World Famous Hotdogs (165 E Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-228-2611), established in 1925, is one of Virginia’s oldest continuously operating restaurants. Classic dogs, glass bottled colas and an old school lunch counter make for a delightful experience. Another iconic spot, popular for dinner, is The 1776 Log House Restaurant (520 East Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-228-4139). Here, fine dining–with an extensive menu of options–is offered in an 18th century, two-story log cabin, recently restored after a fire in 2021. These classics are joined by new restaurants, local breweries and more, even further expanding downtown Wytheville’s appeal.
If you go
Wytheville’s Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre (170 Malin Drive, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-223-0891) is also a local icon for the performing arts. The 200-seat German-themed venue is known for its year-round offerings of “all musicals, all the time.” Each year’s series of Broadway caliber professional musical productions brings a diverse line up of live theatre productions to entertain fans of all ages. Patrons enjoy a four-course themed, plated meal before each performance. Located just off the Interstate, Wohlfahrt Haus is a perennial favorite for music lovers and is just a short drive from downtown.