A Date Night Gem
My husband and I visited the Swift Creek Mill Theater in South Chesterfield, Virginia. We arrived at night for dinner, and the lights sparkling off the water were beautiful. The building looked quaint with a brick exterior and through the windows we could see couples inside enjoying their meal and time together. The interior was similarly inviting and warm. The walls were decorated with a variety of artwork available for purchase. Our first visit was a wonderful experience.
History of Swift Creek Mill Theatre
In 1655, King Charles II gave Henry Randolph a land grant. Eight years later, Randolph built a mill to operate as a gristmill, grinding corn into flour. In 1852, Swift Creek Manufacturing Company purchased the mill and it later became Schmidt’s Distillery of corn whiskey. All gristmill and distillery operations stopped in 1956.
In 1965, three local families bought the mill and started renovations and a theatre. 2013 brought additional renovations, with ADA Accessibility compliance. In 2020, a historic flood hit Swift Creek, and the main dining room was filled with two feet of water. Just one year later, the theatre reopened and continues to offer lively entertainment, thought provoking shows, youth camps and programming, and more. What a rich history!
A Themed Dinner
Swift Creek Mill Theater offers themed dinners with their shows, including drink specials. Our meal was delicious, and the servers were great. Seating for dinner begins two hours before performance time.
A Fantastic Show
We watched The Diary of Anne Frank, newly adapted by Wendy Kesselman. The Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winning drama was very moving. The talented actors were impressive, reminding the audience of a history we should never forget. This was the fifth production of this drama at Swift Creek and all of the content of the new play is taken directly from Anne’s diary. There were laughs and tears, and a great appreciation for the show.
Plan Your Visit
Be sure to check out the upcoming shows and events, as well as the theatre classes and summer camps for kids. From the moment you step in, I know you will enjoy your time at Swift Creek Mill Theatre.
