The Santander Performing Arts Center

Located in downtown Reading, the Santander Performing Arts Center is a historic landmark with a legacy dating back to the 1870s. Originally constructed as a market and Masonic Temple, the venue was rebuilt in the early 1920s as the Rajah Temple. Today, it stands as the city’s only surviving downtown movie palace, preserved through renovations that highlight its ornate architecture and orientalist detailing. The theater is celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and engineered acoustics, offering a grand yet warm setting for live entertainment. The venue serves as a premier hub for a diverse array of shows, including Broadway musicals and major national comedy tours. It has hosted an impressive roster of legendary performers such as Jerry Seinfeld and Kevin James, along with modern favorites like Brad Williams and Jimmy Failla. For a comedy fan, the center provides a professional experience that combines historic charm with the high-caliber production expected of a top-tier touring room.