The Triad offers a rich assortment of entertainment options, but not many can top a cold winter day in the theater. Even though it’s about as far “off-Broadway” as you can get, the Piedmont Triad region rivals the largest Southern cities in the number of quality productions offered. If you are looking for theater culture, you can find it at a number of local stages.

Guilford College

Guilford’s very own Sternberger Auditorium features the talent of the theatre studies students. The students and faculty select the schedule and the plays, often choosing productions that are not commonly seen in the other college theaters. Currently on stage is Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s 18th century play, “The Rivals.” For $3, you will not find a better deal in town. Additional shows this coming school year include:

“Rabbit Hole” — Feb. 11 through Feb. 19

“Gemini” — April 8 through April 16

Triad Stage

232 S. Elm St., Greensboro

Perhaps Greensboro’s first choice for professional theater productions, the Triad Stage opened in 2002 in the restored downtown building. Now called The Pyrle Theater, the company offers year-round shows at fairly reasonable prices. This venue is perfect for a special night on the town, with the added benefit of ample downtown dining options. Prices for single shows range from $18 to $42, depending on date and time. In addition to the holiday standard, “A Christmas Carol,” upcoming shows include:

“The Sunset Limited” — Feb. 13 through March 6

“Steel Magnolias” — April 10 through May 4

Carolina Theatre

310 S. Greene St., Greensboro

A local favorite, The Carolina Theatre of Greensboro represents 83 years of regional history. The holiday season is exceptionally busy as The Community Theater of Greensboro presents their annual production of “The Wizard of Oz” and the Greensboro Ballet showcases the Christmas classic, “The Nutcracker.” Like Triad Stage, Carolina Theatre is downtown. Prices range from $12.50 to $32.50, with $2.50 of each ticket going toward continued theater restoration efforts. Shows include:

“The Wizard of Oz” — Nov. 12 through Dec. 21

“The Eight Reindeer Monologues” — Dec. 8 through Dec. 18

“The Nutcracker” — Dec. 10 through Dec. 19

UNCG Department of Theatre

Taylor Theatre – 450 Tate St., Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers several degrees in theatre; its students offer us UNCG Theatre. This student-staffed production group runs several large-scale plays each year. For a $12 student admission, you can support other theatre students in the local community. Do not forget the after-theater options to be found along Tate Street, including good food and great coffee. A contemporary production of “Alice in Wonderland” is on stage now.

“Alice” runs through Nov. 24.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” — Jan. 1 through Feb. 26

“Hansel and Gretel, The Little Brother and Little Sister” — March 15 through March 20.

High Point Theatre

220 E. Commerce St., High Point

Just eleven miles southwest of Guilford College sits High Point Theatre. This location has been home to The North Carolina Shakespeare Festival for 33 years. In addition to the “Bard of Avalon,” the theatre is home to High Point’s Community Theatre and hosts several national recording and comedy acts each year. A trip to downtown High Point will have limited after-show options, but if you get there early you should check out one of High Point’s oldest diners, “The Dog House.” Ticket prices range from $18 to $23 for students.

“A Christmas Carol” — Dec. 3 through Dec. 19

“It’s a Wonderful Life: Live from WVL Radio Theatre” — Dec. 12

“42nd Street” — Feb. 25 through March 5

UNCSA School of Drama

In Winston-Salem, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts presents hundreds of productions each year in theaters throughout North Carolina. Students and staff present everything from plays to ballets. Their next major production, “The Nutcracker,” will run from Dec. 4 through Dec. 12 at the beautiful downtown Steven’s Center. Winston Salem offers a variety of dining and live music options if you find yourself wanting more before you leave. Other upcoming productions include:

“Light up the Sky” — Nov. 11 through Nov. 20

“Uncommon Women and Others” — Feb. 10 though Feb. 12