One of my great-grandmother’s longtime wishes was to visit Murry’s Dinner Playhouse in Little Rock, a place she had always dreamed of experiencing. On her 75th birthday, my parents made that dream come true by surprising her with a special evening at Murry’s. She was overwhelmed with joy, smiling from ear to ear as she took in the atmosphere, enjoyed the meal, and watched the live performance. It was a heartfelt moment that honored her wish and created a memory our family will always cherish.
The story of Murry’s Dinner Playhouse begins in 1967, when it was originally known as the Olde West Dinner Theatre. After some renovation, it reopened in September 1977 under the name Murry’s. The founder, Ike Murry, was not only a prominent attorney and civic leader, but also served as Arkansas’s attorney general from 1948 to 1952, and ran an unsuccessful campaign for governor in 1952. Today, Ike’s legacy continues through his daughter, Ginger, and her son, Ike Murry McEntire, who actively manage the theater.
The McMillans’ vision was straightforward: to make theater accessible to more people, especially families. This goal influenced their choice of performances, focusing on a blend of comedies, musicals, and family-friendly shows. In 1967, they opened Murry’s Dinner Playhouse in a modest setting on the outskirts of Little Rock.
By the early 1970s, Murry’s relocated to its current prime spot in downtown Little Rock, increasing its ability to attract a wider audience. The new venue, conveniently positioned off Interstate 630, boasted more seating, a bigger stage, and an ideal ambiance for the dinner theater experience. Its central location quickly established it as a favored destination for both locals and tourists.
As Murry's earned a reputation for delivering exceptional productions paired with delicious meals, it became evident that the dinner theater concept was a hit. Over the years, the Playhouse has showcased impressive performances, from beloved Broadway classics like The Sound of Music and Annie to fresh contemporary plays and comedies.
Murry’s is all about the perfect mix of great food and captivating live performances. When you walk through the doors, you can expect a delicious full meal featuring appetizers, entrées, and desserts, all served by attentive waitstaff while you enjoy the show. This unique combination creates a laid-back and immersive experience where you can savor your meal and the entertainment without missing a beat.
More than just a venue for performances, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has become an important part of the Little Rock community. From its inception, the McMillans aimed to craft a warm, family-centric atmosphere, successfully making theater accessible to everyone. For many families in Little Rock and even throughout the state, a visit to Murry’s has turned into a cherished tradition.
Murry’s has also created opportunities for local talent, serving as a launchpad for countless aspiring actors, directors, and musicians. Many have kicked off their careers at Murry’s, gaining invaluable experience and exposure that would follow them throughout their careers. It’s a place where young artists can sharpen their skills and build connections within the community.
Like many arts organizations, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has faced its share of challenges over the years. Economic downturns, shifts in entertainment trends, and the emergence of new media have all tested the theater's durability. Nevertheless, the McMillans and their dedicated team have embraced these changes, successfully adapting to the evolving theater landscape while preserving the timeless charm of their distinctive dinner theater experience.
In 2020, Murry's, like many theaters nationwide, encountered unprecedented hurdles due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With gathering restrictions and social distancing mandates in place, Murry’s had to halt in-person performances. In response, the Playhouse pivoted to virtual shows and implemented other innovative solutions to maintain a connection with audiences during such uncertain times.
With a rich history in Little Rock, Murry's has forged a legacy that continues to flourish. The theater stands as a testament to what can happen when local passion, creativity, and hospitality combine to create something truly extraordinary. With its longstanding tradition of pairing delightful cuisine with captivating performances, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse remains a popular attraction in our state’s capital city.
For details on their show schedule and operating hours, contact Murry’s at (501) 562-3131 or check out their website at www.murrysdp.com.
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