Events at The strand, Dover

About The Strand

The Strand is a century-old live performance venue in downtown Dover, New Hampshire (20 Third Street). Originally opened on September 22, 1919 as a vaudeville movie house, it seated roughly 1,000 people (www.dover.nh.gov). For decades it was the city’s main theater – even hosting the 1955 world premiere of The McConnell Story featuring Dover’s own fighter ace (www.dover.nh.gov). In 1984 local developer Michael Spinelli bought and renovated the Strand as part of his Spinelli Cinemas chain, operating it as a movie theater until the chain’s closure in 2009 (seacoastcurrent.com). Dover’s Strand then sat dark for several years before community volunteers reopened it in August 2015 as a live performing arts space, first called the “Strand Ballroom,” and later simply “The Strand” (cinematreasures.org) (www.mapquest.com). This revival made it Dover’s only professional music and theater venue, earning praise such as New Hampshire Magazine’s 2023 “Best in NH” award for most eclectic performance space (www.mapquest.com).

Today The Strand is a non-profit, veteran-owned arts center run by a community-focused board and volunteers (www.mapquest.com). It still holds much of its original theater charm – ornate metalwork trims the proscenium arch, ceiling and beams – and even retains its old 20’×30’ movie screen (www.thestranddover.com) (www.thestranddover.com). After a 2015 renovation, about 190 original theater-style seats remain in the main hall (with a clear open floor at the front) (www.thestranddover.com). A new flat-floor area (about 1,152 sq. ft.) was added for tables, dance parties and standing concerts (www.thestranddover.com). A smaller adjacent seminar room upstairs holds roughly 80 people, for workshop or meeting events (www.thestranddover.com). With its vintage stage and balcony, The Strand is one of only 11 surviving “Strand” theaters of the 28 built nationwide (www.thestranddover.com). It bills itself as “where the stage comes to life,” embracing everything from live music and comedy to community plays and dance nights (www.mapquest.com) (www.mapquest.com).

Events and Programming

The Strand’s event calendar is diverse. It hosts locally-produced stage shows, live bands, comedians, and themed dance parties every month. For example, the in-house theater troupe “Break A Leg Legally” stages several community musicals and plays each year – past shows include productions of The Addams Family, Dracula, Steel Magnolias, and holiday farces like A Nice Family Christmas (www.thestranddover.com). In addition to these homegrown dramas, the venue regularly books cover bands and tribute acts (e.g. local Fleetwood Mac tribute *Little Lies*, classic rock bands, or singer-songwriters), as well as comedy nights, open-mic performances, and electronic dance party fundraisers. It has even hosted variety “feud” gameshows and country dance socials. Many events are annual or recurring – community theater tends to have spring and fall seasons, there are holiday-themed shows (murder mysteries at Halloween, Christmas variety shows, etc.), and frequent music series.

Concert ticket prices vary but tend to be affordable. In general, community theater and school-dancer-age musicals range from about $10-$20, while adult concerts or touring acts often sell for $15-$30 per ticket. (Members and VIP subscribers get early access and discounts on ticket prices (www.thestranddover.com).) The venue clearly notes that all ticket sales are handled through its official website and box office – it does not use third-party sellers (www.thestranddover.com). Patrons sign up for email alerts or check the site continually to catch on-sale announcements for popular shows. Special events (like a comedy fundraiser or beer-tasting event) may have roughly 2–4 weeks of advance sales, while major musicals often go on sale months in advance with limited presale seating for members. Occasionally door tickets are sold if the show isn’t sold out, but popular shows usually sell out quickly. Concessions (snacks, popcorn, and a cash bar) open about an hour before curtain and remain open during intermission, but there is no full-service kitchen or sit-down dining inside (www.thestranddover.com). Patrons are encouraged to arrive early to collect tickets, grab refreshments, and pick their seats.

Tickets and Booking

All tickets must be purchased directly through The Strand’s official website (thestranddover.com) or at the venue’s box office. The Strand is clear about this on its site to avoid scam sellers (www.thestranddover.com). There is no service fee beyond the ticket price (aside from any credit-card processing fee). Tickets are generally unassigned seating on a first-come basis (except VIP table areas) – you don’t choose numbered seats when buying online. However, for structured shows (like a musical), staff may escort patrons to the “best available” seats when they arrive. VIP or premium seating (with table service or front-row chairs) is available to members or by special request. Box office hours are limited; it is best to buy tickets online well before showtime. If you must buy last-minute, you can also pay at the door with cash or credit, but only if seats remain. Popular concert and theater events often sell out weeks early, so the Strand recommends buying as soon as a show is announced. Members and newsletter subscribers sometimes get pre-sale emails: according to the venue’s membership program, VIP members can purchase tickets before they open to the public (www.thestranddover.com). There are no “official” presale codes or promotions from external ticket agencies – any promotions (like student or military discounts) will be listed on the event’s page on the Strand’s own site. Note that the box office phone number is often published (the Chamber of Commerce lists (603) 343-1899 (www.dovernh.org)), but calling only helps with general inquiries or redeeming tickets; it still directs you to the same online system for purchases. Season ticket books are not offered, but a subscription-based membership program provides similar perks. Members who donate or join support the nonprofit can get advanced entry, free monthly tickets (for VIP levels), and discounts on additional tickets (www.thestranddover.com). This ensures loyal locals have first dibs on big shows. The Strand also does not restrict re-entry during an event. You may step out for a break and come back in with your ticket, as often confirmed by visitor reviews. The venue’s policy is generally friendly and geared toward accessibility, so staff may help with special needs or questions at the door.

Seating and Layout

The Strand’s main performance hall is a single auditorium with an elevated stage at one end and a wide flat area (formerly the orchestra section of the cinema) in front of it. The seats are variable: roughly 190 fixed “movie-theater” chairs remain on risers toward the back (www.thestranddover.com), arranged in traditional rows facing the stage. The front section (nearest the stage) was converted into a dance floor or dining area during the 2015 renovation (www.thestranddover.com). For seated shows, the staff will add rows of movable chairs on that floor space to increase capacity (hence statements of “300+ seat capacity” (www.thestranddover.com)). For standing concerts or parties, that same floor is cleared to allow dancing or mingling. The Stage itself is a proscenium arch with a pole-and-cable rig for lights and sound; decorative screwwork and trim from the 1919 original are still visible above the stage (www.thestranddover.com). A large 20’×30’ movie screen is still installed behind the curtain, so the Strand can project films or video content occasionally (www.thestranddover.com). Because seats on the ground floor are not numbered when you buy, the “best seats” for views tend to be in the center of the remaining fixed seats, or the front row of floor chairs if it’s a seated show. For standing-room concerts, the floor area gives a close-up view but is crowded. The rear fixed seats have a slight elevation, so anyone needing clear sightlines may prefer the middle rows back. The upstairs balcony was effectively closed off as a second theater during renovation (cinematreasures.org), so now there is no public balcony seating at most events (except possibly small VIP loft at very special events). However, there is a lower mezzanine level reachable by stairs which contains that 80-seat “Studio B” room for workshops, which can be configured for classes or small performances (www.thestranddover.com). Accessibility is built-in: wheelchair access to the main floor is from street level (no steps), and there are reserved spots at aisle ends. Accessible restrooms are on the main floor near the lobby (though the hallway narrows), and the stage also has a chair-lift ramp if someone needs to get onstage or in an upper area. If in doubt, it’s best to mention accessibility needs when buying tickets and arrive early so staff can assist with seating. Generally, any seat in the main hall will give good sound, since the ceiling is high and speakers are placed above the stage front. The acoustics are lively but clear, as befits its live-music use.

Getting There and Parking

The Strand is located at 20 Third Street, one block south of downtown Dover’s main Central Avenue (NH-108). By car, it’s easiest to reach via U.S. Route 4 or the Spaulding Turnpike (I-95) to Dover. From the Spaulding (north-south highway), take Exit 6A and follow NH-4/16 east into downtown, then turn south onto Third Street (between Chestnut and Locust Streets). From the east via Route 4, Third Street is reachable via City Hall square. The Dover Chamber of Commerce notes that Dover is about 15–20 minutes from both Portsmouth and Rochester (www.dovernh.org), making The Strand convenient to drivers from the whole Seacoast region. Parking around downtown Dover is a mix of metered on-street spots and municipal lots. On-street parking (closest to the venue) operates by the Flowbird pay-by-phone app (www.dover.nh.gov). Typical downtown rates are modest (around $1–$1.50 per hour), and notably a 15-minute grace period is granted free on most meters (www.dover.nh.gov). There is no free long-term parking on Third Street itself, but free or cheaper lots are just a few minutes’ walk away. For example, the Dover Parking Bureau maintains public lots on Locust and Union Streets (a block or two north) and on Court Street (a 3–4 minute walk) with hourly meters. The Dover Transportation Center (train/bus station) a couple blocks east also has 300+ spaces at very low rates (amtrakdowneaster.com). On evenings and weekends downtown parking in Dover is plentiful, but always remember to activate the Flowbird app or pay at the meter to avoid tickets. If you’re running late, many mobile apps will let you add more time remotely. If you prefer a ride-share or taxi, the convenient drop-off is right in front: Third Street has a curb cut so cars can pull in briefly (nearlies Third/Orchard intersection) to drop off tickets and people. Nearby bus transit is provided by COAST (the local bus system): routes 12, 33, and 34 all stop within a 5–10 minute walk (Central Ave or Locust St stops at Dover City Hall, and buses connect Dover with Rochester, Somersworth, Somersworth, and the Plymouth–Manchester area). The Downeaster Amtrak train stops at the Dover Transportation Center (adjacent to Dover City Hall) (amtrakdowneaster.com), making rail travel an option; the station is roughly 0.3 miles from The Strand (a 5–7 minute walk south on Chestnut St.). The Strand’s staff suggest the station’s large parking lot as a secure option if you take the train, since it’s only $3 per day (amtrakdowneaster.com) (much cheaper than downtown metered parking). In short, getting to The Strand is straightforward by car, bus, or even train followed by a short walk or local bus ride.

Inside the Venue

Entering The Strand, you walk into a small lobby with a ticket counter (for will-call and box-office sales) and the concessions/mail bar area. Security personnel or volunteers usually hand-check tickets at the entrance; small clutch bags and jackets are allowed in, but large backpacks may be asked to be checked. (Re-entry is permitted if you exit during the show.) The lobby also has a modest merchandise table when bands or theatre groups sell their CD/t-shirt souvenirs. Just beyond the lobby is an open space with two standalone bars – one larger bar serving beer, wine and cocktails, and a smaller stand selling movie-style concessions (popcorn, candy, soft drinks) (www.thestranddover.com). Beer selections often include local craft brews on tap, and the bar accepts cash or credit (no outside alcohol allowed). However, do note there is no restaurant kitchen, so don’t expect hot food beyond bar snacks and chips. Many guests head to a nearby restaurant for dinner before the show or grab food after. Once inside the auditorium, don’t expect wifi or phone signal – the walls are thick, so it’s best to check messages beforehand. The atmosphere is friendly and casual; the theater is often lit by string lights and stage lights casting a warm glow. Restrooms are located off the lobby and down a hallway – there are men’s, women’s, and an ADA-accessible all-gender restroom available. These can get busy at intermission, so plan accordingly. There is a small coat/checker area near the restrooms (usually unattended) if you need to stow a coat or bag during winter events (coat check is often free or by donation). Performance announcements happen over a basic PA before each show. The sound system is surprisingly powerful for a historic building: The Strand uses a professional Midas M32 digital mixing board and loudspeakers “that rival a dance club” (www.thestranddover.com). Audio quality is generally excellent for both amplified music and spoken word – the house engineers (often volunteers or tech students) tune the system so that singers and instruments are clear from front to back. The stage lighting rig includes colored LED par cans and moving patterns overhead, as well as a front wash – organizers can put on a thorough light show for concerts or theatrical plays. Overall, the venue inside feels intimate – with the audience right on top of the stage – fostering a lively community vibe.

Nearby Amenities

Third Street is right at the heart of downtown Dover, so there are plenty of food and drink options within a block or two of The Strand. Just steps away on 3rd Street is Christopher’s Third Street Grille (16 3rd St), a popular American bar-and-grill known for steak, wings and seafood; it’s a favorite pre-show steakhouse and pub (www.tripadvisor.com). A short walk east on Central Avenue (one block north) will take you to Thirsty Moose Taphouse, another brewpub with a great craft-beer selection and burgers, pizzas and pub fare (www.tripadvisor.com) – its lively bar scene often complements Strand events. Other nearby restaurants include brick-oven pizza places, Thai and Mexican eateries, and ice cream shops along Central (just a few blocks away at Chestnut Street). For a light meal even closer, the Little Bean Coffee espresso bar is right across the street on Third, open afternoons and evenings (good for a quick sandwich or latte). If you want to dine around the Strand, it’s wise to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before showtime so you have time to eat. Christopher’s and the Moose are usually reservable, but surge-demand nights (Friday/Saturday) can get crowded. Casual diners nearby include fast-casual burger spots or cafes on Washington Street, all within a 5-minute walk. After a late show, many downtown bars stay open for coffee or dessert (the adjacent neighbor is a gelato shop). Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) usually congregate near the Dover Public Library or nearby Central Ave lots for pickups, since downtown streets are narrow. However, you can arrange a drop right at Third Street—just tell your driver “in front of [The Pier Grill] on Third Street,” which is easy to find. For overnight stays, Downtown Dover Inn (481 Central Ave) is the only hotel actually in downtown, just a 5-minute walk from The Strand (girihotels.com). This recently-renovated boutique hotel has comfortable rooms (some pet-friendly) and a small indoor pool, making it ideal for visitors. If full, area options 2–3 miles away include well-known chains: Hampton Inn Dover (near the mall, ~10 min drive), or the extended-stay Homewood Suites. For a unique local experience, Dover Downs Hotel & Casino is only about 3 miles north and has its own event center and casino (note: Dover Downs often hosts concerts too, but for Strand visitors it’s another lodging choice). In all, whether you’re driving in, taking transit, or flying into Boston (about 1 hour away), the Strand is easily accessible, and the downtown area is filled with restaurants, a brewery, and one boutique hotel to make your evening complete.

What Makes This Venue Special

The Strand stands out among New Hampshire venues for its unique blend of history, community spirit, and versatility. Architecturally it is a rare survivor of the Opulent Era of downtown theaters, with its century-old ironwork and a full-size movie screen intact (www.thestranddover.com) (www.thestranddover.com). It’s also notable as “the only venue in Dover … where the stage comes to life” (www.mapquest.com) – a phrase the staff loves. That slogan reflects how it transforms: one night it might host a touring rock band’s raucous concert, the next a high-schooler’s recital or a live comedy show. No other local venue matches its flexibility. Historically, it has deep roots in the community. Being one of the oldest continuously-used theaters in New Hampshire (often called the “3rd oldest operating theatre” in the state (www.mapquest.com)), locals remember when it was the town’s flicks-and-drinks movie palace. That storied past brings pride – even Hollywood once came to Dover here. Now, that heritage has been handed to the community: The Strand is run by veterans, volunteers and theater lovers, not a big promoter chain (www.mapquest.com). This grassroots, nonprofit model makes audiences feel like the Strand is “ours” – they see familiar faces working the door, and local kids stage their first shows here. Several unique traditions add to its character. For example, the Strand operates a rotating charitable program: each month they partner with a local nonprofit (often veteran or youth arts groups) and direct a portion of proceeds to it (www.mapquest.com). The in-house company Break A Leg Legally frequently holds auditions open to the public, meaning ordinary residents can actively join productions on stage (www.thestranddover.com). Walk-about fundraisers like coffeehouse ventures (e.g. a Beatnix fundraiser and pop-up shop (www.thestranddover.com)) show its connection to Dover’s artists and cafés. And events like murder-mystery dinner nights or even a downtown fashion show (as part of riverfront festivals) make the Strand more than a concert hall – it’s a cultural hub. All of these community-driven aspects, along with its historic charm, are why Maine-based visitors and NH magazines alike praise it as a “cool old place” worth a visit (cinematreasures.org). For artists, The Strand is beloved because it’s intimate and supportive. Musicians love the built-in audience and good sound system; theater groups appreciate having a real pro stage. The fixed seats can still be retracted or added via floor seating, so even small local acts can affordably book a “big theater” vibe. Audiences love it because everyone is close to the action – you feel part of the show. Especially on dance or karaoke nights, it often feels like one big party with neighbors you see regularly. In short, what makes the Strand special is this combination of old-school ambiance, community ownership, and the sheer variety of things it tries (from rock to recitals to risqué burlesque nights). Dover residents often boast: there’s nowhere else like it on the Seacoast.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The Strand is wheelchair-accessible. The main floor has no steps from the street entrance, and there are wheelchair-designated seating spots near aisles. ADA restrooms are on site. There is an elevator/lift to the secondary (side theater) level and backstage. Most shows allow service animals, but pets that are not service animals should not be brought inside to performances. If you require accommodations (like interpreter services or special seating), contact the venue at least a week in advance so they can assist. What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to buy alcohol at the bar (ID is checked at the bar for anyone who looks under 40). On that note, no outside food or drinks (other than sealed water bottles) are allowed inside. You should also bring a fully charged phone in case the parking meter app or ride-share is needed, but remember phones should be silenced during the show. Dress is casual in summer – T-shirts, jeans or dresses – but it can get chilly sitting in an old theater building, so a light sweater is advisable. For winter shows, a coat or wrap is smart; there is limited indoor coat storage/coat check for a small fee or donation. Arrival Advice: Plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before curtain if you already have tickets, or 45 minutes early if you need to purchase tickets or want a pre-show refreshment. The box office opens roughly an hour before curtain. If sitting on the floor, early arrivers can claim front space (there are no fixed floor seat rows). Late arrivals may need to wait for a break to be seated because staff will not escort you past the audience when a show is underway, for obvious reasons. Mits often coordinate a pause between scenes for seating. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t wait until the last minute to find parking on a busy night – Third Street meters can fill up quickly on weekend evenings. Also, confirm show start times before you go (they’re usually 7 or 8 pm, but matinees or family shows could be at 2pm, etc.). Note that the Strand does not sell tickets or list events on Ticketmaster, Stubhub, or third-party sites – using those could lead to scams. The official website is the only safe source. One tip: check The Strand’s Facebook or Instagram (@thestranddover) for any day-of announcements or seat availability updates. Children and Age: All ages are welcome, but content varies by show. Family-friendly musicals and concerts are common. Anything 21+ will be clearly marked (for example, shows with alcohol sales may restrict entry to 21+). If bringing kids, be aware seating is tight on the aisles; many parents prefer to sit with a clear path to exit. There is no formal dress code – most patrons wear jeans and a nice shirt or a casual dress. (On special gala nights, some may dress up a bit, but it’s not expected.) Insider Tips: If a performance includes audience participation (like some murder mystery dinners or interactive game shows the Strand sometimes runs), the emcee will usually ask for a volunteer or open it up for applause. Don’t be shy if you’re interested! Also, if you come early for a concert, hang near the stage for a better spot. At big shows, fans often queue on Third Street before doors open. On strictly sold-out nights, stand-by line-ups rarely are allowed because capacity is limited – it’s best to buy early. By following these tips, guests report the best experience. As one local reviewer put it, “The Strand is friendly and fun – just like an old neighborhood theater with 21st-century shows.” With a bit of planning, your night there should go smoothly: a historic setting, good sound, and local charm all help make sure everyone has a great time.

Frequently Asked Questions