"Expect the Unexpected" is the motto of the Carousel Dinner Theater in Akron Ohio. With people busier than ever in the past, recreation time is more important than it's ever been. As a result they select dinner theater for entertainment.

Many dinner theaters claim to be the largest, Carousel is no exception. It might be or might not be, but it's one of the best. Carousel productions are put on by union members. That's not just because the like the unions. Union talents and workers tend to be the most proficient.

Carousel transferred to its present location in 1988 after 15 years in business in a converted supermarket. The theater accommodates patrons looking for both dinner and a show, as well as those who want to skip the meal but see the show . Recently more theater professionals from New York have been hired. This means the shows are even better than in the past.

"Wicked" has been a very popular play . This is a story that takes place before the Wizard of Oz and involves many of the witches in that world. In 2008 Carousel presents the Wizard of Oz, the story that began it all. The frame around the stage that moves the sets around, the Proscenium, is very intricate.

Given its proximity to Broadway and the attraction to New York theater professionals, over the years the Carousel has hosted quite a number of Broadway productions. "The Odd Couple" brought down the house in 2008. It has hosted many others including Footloose and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Here you can enjoy good food and Broadway without going to Broadway. High School Musical will play there in 2009.

Enjoy New York without the traffic at the Carousel Dinner Theater. It's a lot of fun.