An Enchanting Musical Experience with the Hershey Symphony Orchestra
For over five decades, the Hershey Symphony Orchestra has been enchanting audiences with its captivating performances, weaving together a tapestry of musical brilliance. This esteemed ensemble is made up of 80 accomplished musicians from Eastern and Central Pennsylvania who volunteer their time and talent to bring a rich repertoire of classical music to the community. Lose yourself in the beauty of music with a night at the symphony during your next getaway to the Londonderry Inn and Estate. We promise you'll be in for a culturally enriching treat!
The orchestra's principal stage is at the historic Hershey Theatre, built in 1933 during the Great Depression by visionary chocolatier Milton S. Hershey as his gift to his community. The 1,904-seat theater boasts Venice-inspired ornate detailing, exquisite chandeliers and richly decorated walls that provide a fitting backdrop for the symphony's transcendent performances. The theater is also the place to catch ballet performances, Broadway shows and top music artists.
Established in 1969, the Hershey Symphony Orchestra exposes audiences to a wide variety of musical literature. Concerts include music from all periods and styles — from traditional symphonies and operas to contemporary compositions and crossover pieces. Each symphony season features six subscription concerts, an annual benefit gala, and summer outdoor pops concerts in Hershey, Lebanon and Mt. Gretna. Coming up on Feb. 17, the orchestra joins Michael Cavanaugh and his band to rock out on music from the Billy Joel songbook. Cavanaugh was handpicked by Billy Joel to perform his music in the Broadway musical "Movin' Out." On March 23, the symphony will be joined onstage by local choirs to present Poulenc’s Gloria, a choral masterwork in miniature following the example of Vivaldi. On April 26, the triumphant finale to the orchestra's 55th season will include a tour of Eastern Europe by way of Enesco’s Roumanian Rhapsody No. 1 and Prokofiev’s Suite 2 from Romeo and Juliet.
The allure of the Hershey Symphony Orchestra extends beyond the music itself. It offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in a memorable evening out on the town. Enhance your experience by combining a concert with a delectable dining experience at one of Hershey's finest establishments right on Chocolate Avenue near the Hershey Theatre. Treat your taste buds to the culinary delights of Hershey institution Fenicci's or the distinctive Devon Seafood and Steak, where sumptuous dishes await to tantalize your palate. For those craving craft brews and hearty fare, a visit to Iron Hill Brewery promises to satisfy every craving. And for a taste of diverse flavors and friendly small-town service, the Chocolate Avenue Grill is a must-visit destination.
After an enchanting evening of music and dining, retire to our luxurious accommodations at the Londonderry Inn and Estate and make it a truly unforgettable getaway. Located less than 5 miles from the orchestra's home stage, our pre-Civil War Era Victorian inn offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Attending a symphony performance during your Hershey getaway adds depth, romance and cultural enrichment to your experience, elevating it from a simple vacation to a truly unforgettable escape. So why not treat yourself to an evening of musical magic, with dinner and a romantic retreat, and create memories that will last a lifetime?
[Please note: Due to renovations at the Hershey Community Building, which houses the Hershey Theatre, some symphony performances in 2024 and 2025 will be held at Founders Hall on the campus of Milton Hershey School.]
