Founded in 1933 by Robert Porterfield, Barter Theatre has been providing world-class entertainment to Southwest Virginia for more than 80 years. Barter Theatre, nestled in the hills of Abingdon, has two stages and performs a multitude of varied shows for more than 160,000 patrons annually. This non-profit theatre supports a resident acting company of talented performers who have come from all over the country to continue Robert Porterfield's dream. With its own costume shop, scene shop and prop shop, Barter Theatre is able to create nearly every element of each show right in the heart of the small town it calls home. In addition to its resident acting company, Barter Theatre also houses a company of non-equity performers who are just beginning their careers. The Barter Player company specializes in productions for children of all ages and spends several months each year touring to perform at schools all across the country. Barter Theatre also maintains two separate education programs. Barter Youth Academy and Project REAL have become an integral part of the theatre and its mission to serve the region it calls home.