by M. J. Joachim

Created on: November 17, 2009

Located on the southeast corner of Brown and Higley Roads is a fairly decent sized strip mall. Flanked by Kentucky Fried Chicken and Applebee's drawing traffic to the back row of businesses and vacancies that so commonly make up Mesa's city landscape these days, sits the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, usually with rows of cars filling the parking lot in front of it. East Mesa has something to brag about here, a real sense of city life and culture that entertains the thousands who have had the pleasure of taking in one of Mesa's most memorable nightlife events.

Owned and operated by the Prather's, Mesa's Broadway Palm Dinner Theater is the third such entertainment facility developed by this well known theatrical family. "Prather Entertainment Group (PEG) - is the largest operator of Dinner Theaters in the United States. The Prather Family produces over 30 productions annually at its three entertainment facilities: the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatres in Fort Myers, Florida and Mesa, Arizona, and also produces and presents full-scale tours of musicals in venues throughout the country," according to the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater website.

For nine seasons now, East Mesa has delighted patrons with grand shows like the *Buddy Holly Story*, *Oklahoma*, *Oliver*, and many others catering to fans of all ages, as they prominently feature their Children's Theater to reach out to the youth in the community.

When you walk in, the lobby is beautifully decorated in lights, and you somehow feel whisked off to another world where real life meets stage life and unexpected ambiance. The entrance to the actual dining and theater faces you, in the center of the lobby. To the left is a bar with a pleasant arrangement of artwork on display. There is a large banquet room as well, suitable for hosting parties, receptions, and other events.

To the right is a welcoming foyer, with the box office conveniently located at the back; restrooms are on the far side wall. Directly in front of the theater is a quaint gift shop, featuring all sorts of merchandise, including works from local artists. The red carpet is appropriate, since you are treated like the premier guest from the moment you cross the threshold.

Once you enter the theater, there is a buffet banquet set up eloquently in the front, by the stage. To the left of the stage are delicious entrees, soups, salads, and breads; to the right of the stage are decadent desserts you simply can't afford to ignore if you go. Well mannered waiters attend your table with the utmost diligence. Once dinner or lunch service is concluded, a magnificent stage play is presented.

You will be delightfully engaged in the theater productions at Mesa's Broadway Palm. The cast is warm, entertaining, and thoughtful of its audience. Prior to the show, you are greeted with announcements, often applauding personal events like birthdays and anniversaries. And when the show begins, you are captivated by positively wonderful entertainment.

Broadway Palm is located at 5247 E. Brown Rd. in Mesa. Their phone number is: 480-325-6700. If you would like more information about current show times, ticket information, pricing, or directions, you can visit their website.

Having seen several shows since their opening in 2001, I am ecstatic to have this amazing dinner theater situated in my community and neighborhood. Whether I wanted a romantic night out with my husband, a fun excursion with the kids, or a chance to entertain relatives from out of town, Broadway Palm has always been a great place to go.

Learn more about this author, M. J. Joachim.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.