Always a great place to visit when in the Tri-cities area. This local theatre is in a beautiful, historical building that was once a grist mill. The view outside is so beautiful. You can walk to the side of the building and see Swift Creek and the old track for the water wheel.Service here is wonderful, with smiling faces and prompt refilling of the water goblet or wine glass. Do yourself a favor and go to one of the fun cabarets. They're intimate and fun, plus filled with upbeat songs for toe-tapping with friends or a cool date night with your love.The management and staff are always wonderful. There's always cool artwork on display around the Mill as well. We're very lucky to have such a neat place to go see shows or grab dinner.
Todd Gerber
Great local theater, great dining.
Richard Braxton
It was an awesome experience! Went with my son and his school to see "The Three Little Pigs". They put an unexpected twist to the story. I loved it! My son wants to come back and see more performances.
Lillian Burney-Mason
Finally saw "BKLN The Musical" on the last day. If you missed it today, you missed it. The singing and acting were absolutely sensational!!!
cee maa
Plays/theatre/ eating always fun times and Swift Creek Mill has it all. But there is one extra that makes the upstairs dining room particularly AMAZING... The artwork by Richmond's AMAZING Artist... Kyle Epps!!! Talk about interesting, beauty, thought provoking, moving artwork. Made my spirit dance to know there is such good taste adorning their walls!
Connie Robinson
Too many good things to say about tonight! Friendly staff and all the food was excellent! The show was wonderful and the actors, actresses and band were wonderful! “Paradice” was funny and she had a great voice. “Streetsinger” was an excellent story teller and her voice was soulful and I absolutely loved her. Everyone was great and so much talent in one beautiful, historical building. HIGHLY RECOMMEND And we will be back again and again!
Candy Crawford
Dinner wasn’t as good as anticipated it to be.The theatrical shows are always excellent.
Chris Oubre
Wonderful food and awesome talent
Elizabeth Northen
LOVE the energy of the place and play was great! Outgoing and fun staff made fir very special experience!
Play was wonderful, food was good and staff was friendly and informative
Allie Klein
I recently attended the invited dress rehearsal of "Greetings," and as a Jew and a special education teacher, I was horrified the entire time. Despite an enjoyable art show preceding the play (Go James River Art League!), "Greetings" left me with a sense of horrible discomfort and complete disappointment. My friend who brought me kept apologizing afterwards and we still have not recovered fully.The evening took an uneasy turn quickly with a homophobic joke in the first scene ("If two boys get out the car I'll send them both back" or something like that) and a complete dismissive portrayal of atheism and Judaism. (The characters all ultimately find solace in the Christian God, which not only falls into a narrow narrative but also excludes those with diverse faiths.)However, all that aside as it is a Southern Christmas show despite being sold as a "holiday show," my particular source of distress was the portrayal of a disabled character by a neurotypical actor. The improper handling of seizure etiquette and the exaggerated gestures and groans contributed to a portrayal that lacked authenticity and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about the disabled community.Contrary to the cozy holiday show it was billed as, "Greetings" was marked by shouting, aggression, and uncomfortable scenes that left the entire audience visibly unsettled. Awkward laughter filled the room as we all seemed to grapple with the inappropriate content on stage.Despite the theater's claims of being a welcoming and inclusive space, "Greetings" did not align with these ideals. The disparity between the play's content and how online the theater talks about ADA compliance/a "VisitAble" membership, this raises concerns about the safety and comfort of disabled patrons. Notably, art show attendees with mobility aids seemed to not to stay for the show, a decision that seems justified in retrospect.I strongly urge those considering attending "Greetings" to reconsider. It is crucial to communicate the reasons for this decision to the theater management, with the hope that such feedback may lead to positive change. As someone who has spent days seething about this performance, I believe it is time for the theater community to reassess its commitment to inclusion and respect, and "Greetings" unfortunately falls short of these standards.Please do your research about disabilities, including nonverbal disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and motor control disabilities, and seizure etiquette. NEVER restrain someone having a seizure, place something comfortable under their head so they do not hurt themselves and then either call 911 or monitor the seizure if they have a disorder like Epilepsy and this is "common" for them.I previously saw a play here during the last James River Art League show and it was good- so I'm hoping this is not common, but this still cannot be allowed. If I had paid to see this, I would be demanding a refund.
Linda Maitland
Following a superb seasonal lunch in the Mill dining room, our group took in a Sunday matinee of Tick…Tick…Boom and it was absolutely AWESOME!I got lost in the performance of the incredibly talented cast and the time flew by.
Jody Kane
Great night out for $100.00. Good music, food and beverages.
M Smith
I first came across Swift Creek Mill Theater in 2021, introduced to it by my wife's book club friend, and from the very beginning, we both developed a deep appreciation for it. Over the years, we frequented this establishment, often accompanied by friends, as it is the only theater near us. Granted, it's not the most budget-friendly option, but one must consider that it's a means of supporting the arts, and the quality of the performances generally warrants the expense.Nevertheless, we couldn't help but notice a few shortcomings. The theater's cleanliness was not up to par, a point of contention that persisted. Additionally, we observed what appeared to be a pattern in casting choices. Swift Creek Mill Theater seemed to limit the inclusion of non-white actors to situations where the characters explicitly referenced their race. When a character's ethnicity became relevant to the plot, only then did the theater cast a person of color. Otherwise, it seemed as though the same select individuals were continually rotating through various roles. Dining also became a less appealing option as errors in serving my wife's vegetarian meal and other issues, such as neglecting to provide drink menus, began to mar our experience. (And seriously, who offers just one roll of bread per person and a choice between two minuscule desserts? Dessert's the best part!)However, despite these shortcomings, we cherished our time spent in the charming tavern both for shows and cabarets—until recently.The production of Tick Tick Boom shattered our trust in Swift Creek Mill Theater. A close friend's child fell victim to assault by a lead cast member, and it came to light that the management was aware of this cast member's history of predatory behavior, yet still chose to employ him and allowed him to complete the show's run. Management knowingly retained a man with a history of sexual assault against multiple people, and this revelation left us profoundly disturbed.Seeing this individual's face prominently displayed in advertisements across the internet is nothing short of heart-wrenching, especially for those within our community who have fallen prey to his actions. It is sickening to witness the theater's management turns a blind eye to his transgressions.Reflecting on the situation, I regret not heeding the warning signs and discontinuing our patronage long before this disturbing incident came to light. I am not alone in this sentiment, as I know at least two dozen others who share my resolve to refrain from returning, purchasing season tickets, or making further donations to Swift Creek Mill Theatre following this last, indefensible casting decision.Inaction can be as culpable as wrongdoing itself and the community deserves to know. Swift Creek Mill Theatre, you must strive to do better. Your complacency in the face of such grave misconduct is inexcusable, and it tarnishes the reputation of an institution that should be a beacon of integrity within our community.
Always a great place to visit when in the Tri-cities area. This local theatre is in a beautiful, historical building that was once a grist mill. The view outside is so beautiful. You can walk to the side of the building and see Swift Creek and the old track for the water wheel.Service here is wonderful, with smiling faces and prompt refilling of the water goblet or wine glass. Do yourself a favor and go to one of the fun cabarets. They're intimate and fun, plus filled with upbeat songs for toe-tapping with friends or a cool date night with your love.The management and staff are always wonderful. There's always cool artwork on display around the Mill as well. We're very lucky to have such a neat place to go see shows or grab dinner.
Great local theater, great dining.
It was an awesome experience! Went with my son and his school to see "The Three Little Pigs". They put an unexpected twist to the story. I loved it! My son wants to come back and see more performances.
Finally saw "BKLN The Musical" on the last day. If you missed it today, you missed it. The singing and acting were absolutely sensational!!!
Plays/theatre/ eating always fun times and Swift Creek Mill has it all. But there is one extra that makes the upstairs dining room particularly AMAZING... The artwork by Richmond's AMAZING Artist... Kyle Epps!!! Talk about interesting, beauty, thought provoking, moving artwork. Made my spirit dance to know there is such good taste adorning their walls!
Too many good things to say about tonight! Friendly staff and all the food was excellent! The show was wonderful and the actors, actresses and band were wonderful! “Paradice” was funny and she had a great voice. “Streetsinger” was an excellent story teller and her voice was soulful and I absolutely loved her. Everyone was great and so much talent in one beautiful, historical building. HIGHLY RECOMMEND And we will be back again and again!
Dinner wasn’t as good as anticipated it to be.The theatrical shows are always excellent.
Wonderful food and awesome talent
LOVE the energy of the place and play was great! Outgoing and fun staff made fir very special experience!
I love this place!
Restaurantji Recommends
Play was wonderful, food was good and staff was friendly and informative
I recently attended the invited dress rehearsal of "Greetings," and as a Jew and a special education teacher, I was horrified the entire time. Despite an enjoyable art show preceding the play (Go James River Art League!), "Greetings" left me with a sense of horrible discomfort and complete disappointment. My friend who brought me kept apologizing afterwards and we still have not recovered fully.The evening took an uneasy turn quickly with a homophobic joke in the first scene ("If two boys get out the car I'll send them both back" or something like that) and a complete dismissive portrayal of atheism and Judaism. (The characters all ultimately find solace in the Christian God, which not only falls into a narrow narrative but also excludes those with diverse faiths.)However, all that aside as it is a Southern Christmas show despite being sold as a "holiday show," my particular source of distress was the portrayal of a disabled character by a neurotypical actor. The improper handling of seizure etiquette and the exaggerated gestures and groans contributed to a portrayal that lacked authenticity and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about the disabled community.Contrary to the cozy holiday show it was billed as, "Greetings" was marked by shouting, aggression, and uncomfortable scenes that left the entire audience visibly unsettled. Awkward laughter filled the room as we all seemed to grapple with the inappropriate content on stage.Despite the theater's claims of being a welcoming and inclusive space, "Greetings" did not align with these ideals. The disparity between the play's content and how online the theater talks about ADA compliance/a "VisitAble" membership, this raises concerns about the safety and comfort of disabled patrons. Notably, art show attendees with mobility aids seemed to not to stay for the show, a decision that seems justified in retrospect.I strongly urge those considering attending "Greetings" to reconsider. It is crucial to communicate the reasons for this decision to the theater management, with the hope that such feedback may lead to positive change. As someone who has spent days seething about this performance, I believe it is time for the theater community to reassess its commitment to inclusion and respect, and "Greetings" unfortunately falls short of these standards.Please do your research about disabilities, including nonverbal disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and motor control disabilities, and seizure etiquette. NEVER restrain someone having a seizure, place something comfortable under their head so they do not hurt themselves and then either call 911 or monitor the seizure if they have a disorder like Epilepsy and this is "common" for them.I previously saw a play here during the last James River Art League show and it was good- so I'm hoping this is not common, but this still cannot be allowed. If I had paid to see this, I would be demanding a refund.
Following a superb seasonal lunch in the Mill dining room, our group took in a Sunday matinee of Tick…Tick…Boom and it was absolutely AWESOME!I got lost in the performance of the incredibly talented cast and the time flew by.
Great night out for $100.00. Good music, food and beverages.
I first came across Swift Creek Mill Theater in 2021, introduced to it by my wife's book club friend, and from the very beginning, we both developed a deep appreciation for it. Over the years, we frequented this establishment, often accompanied by friends, as it is the only theater near us. Granted, it's not the most budget-friendly option, but one must consider that it's a means of supporting the arts, and the quality of the performances generally warrants the expense.Nevertheless, we couldn't help but notice a few shortcomings. The theater's cleanliness was not up to par, a point of contention that persisted. Additionally, we observed what appeared to be a pattern in casting choices. Swift Creek Mill Theater seemed to limit the inclusion of non-white actors to situations where the characters explicitly referenced their race. When a character's ethnicity became relevant to the plot, only then did the theater cast a person of color. Otherwise, it seemed as though the same select individuals were continually rotating through various roles. Dining also became a less appealing option as errors in serving my wife's vegetarian meal and other issues, such as neglecting to provide drink menus, began to mar our experience. (And seriously, who offers just one roll of bread per person and a choice between two minuscule desserts? Dessert's the best part!)However, despite these shortcomings, we cherished our time spent in the charming tavern both for shows and cabarets—until recently.The production of Tick Tick Boom shattered our trust in Swift Creek Mill Theater. A close friend's child fell victim to assault by a lead cast member, and it came to light that the management was aware of this cast member's history of predatory behavior, yet still chose to employ him and allowed him to complete the show's run. Management knowingly retained a man with a history of sexual assault against multiple people, and this revelation left us profoundly disturbed.Seeing this individual's face prominently displayed in advertisements across the internet is nothing short of heart-wrenching, especially for those within our community who have fallen prey to his actions. It is sickening to witness the theater's management turns a blind eye to his transgressions.Reflecting on the situation, I regret not heeding the warning signs and discontinuing our patronage long before this disturbing incident came to light. I am not alone in this sentiment, as I know at least two dozen others who share my resolve to refrain from returning, purchasing season tickets, or making further donations to Swift Creek Mill Theatre following this last, indefensible casting decision.Inaction can be as culpable as wrongdoing itself and the community deserves to know. Swift Creek Mill Theatre, you must strive to do better. Your complacency in the face of such grave misconduct is inexcusable, and it tarnishes the reputation of an institution that should be a beacon of integrity within our community.