Derby Dinner Playhouse
One of the features of society that has remained constant through generations includes the desire for times of entertainment . Entertainment is important not only because it brings people together , but it diverts people ’ s attention from the demanding and stressful rigors of life . Entertainment amuses and produces moments that are enjoyable , pleasurable , and memorable . Derby Dinner Playhouse provides great food while telling a great story . Is there a better way to be entertained ?
In the early 1970s , several local business leaders wanted to create an entertainment complex in Southern Indiana . Their vision saw a full-service hotel , a waterpark , an ice-skating rink , an exercise facility , a convention center , and a dinner theater . At the time , dinner theaters were a popular entertainment venue .
Windmill Dinner Theater , Inc ., an organization who owned several successful dinner theaters in Texas and Arizona , was contracted to design , build , and manage a theater here . Derby Dinner Playhouse opened its doors and raised its curtain in 1974 . Nine years later , as the partners and owners approached retirement age , the decision was made to offer the operation to General Manager Carolyn Thomas . Carolyn in turn created a partnership with Bekki Jo Schneider to own and operate Derby Dinner . Carolyn would manage the business end of the business , while Bekki Jo would produce the shows . The two women began Entertainment Plus , Inc ., the parent company for Derby Dinner .
Today Derby Dinner is owned and operated by Carolyn ’ s daughter , Cynthia Knopp , and Bekki Jo ’ s son , Jeremy Saunders . Derby Dinner Playhouse continues to offer a buffet dinner and live
Derby Dinner Playhouse opened in 1974 .
theater . They have added a Children ’ s Theater , concerts , and special events to their menu .
Derby Dinner faces obstacles unique to its two specialized industries . The availability of shows to produce has become more challenging . The business contains a high overhead , with rising costs of employees , wages , and the cost of goods . Turning a secured profit takes
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