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Suddenly the room is overcome by darkness, signaling the show is about to start.  The once chatty audience is now hushed and have directed their attention to the stage. The orchestra begins as the first actor majestically saunters onto the huge platform from beneath the red curtains. He opens his mouth, beginning this fascinating story-telling performance.

Throughout history, the world of theater has always drawn crowds excited to become lost in the poetic movements and charming tales induced by theater, compelling cities like London and New York City to capitalize on the love for the arts. However, the following five destinations have also been bitten by the acting bug and bring their need to perform to life with over-the-top festivals and theaters that attract a multitude of people performance after performance.

Avignon, France

Looking to be entranced by the creativity of theatrical performances? Then take your rightful place at the Avignon Theater Festival. For the entire month of July, the French city of Avignon morphs into an open-air platform where actors and directors work tirelessly to ensure their guests are entertained.

Avignon is a medieval city that is charmingly immersed in archeological gems that have survived thousands of years of history, proving that artistry has always flowed through its veins.  So it comes as no surprise that the Avignon Theater Festival would be one of the liveliest stages on earth, utilizing the al fresco spaces of the Palais des Papes to put on a grand show that is also embedded with the heritage the city firmly stands on. Since 1947, dozens of dramatic shows have lured visitors from across the globe to witness the magic that occurs once Avignon converts into an open stage.

Edinburgh, Scotland

The Scottish take their love for the stage seriously, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a three-week production that the city proudly hosts every year. As the biggest artistic extravaganza to hit the globe since its establishment in 1947, veteran performers and seasoned actors alike long to have their moment in this world-class event. From comedies, cabaret and opera to musicals, there’s no shortage of entertainment when it comes to providing the element of surprise. 

During the festival which will be held on Aug. 7-31 in 2015, just about every space of Edinburgh’s landscape is filled with an exciting show, with each artist keeping his spectators eyes fixated on his skillful movements and hanging onto every word.  When it comes to rocking the stage, Edinburgh has mastered it in such an extraordinary way, not even Hollywood’s biggest names can compete with the talents adorning this imaginative presentation.

Warsaw, Poland

You don’t have to be a theater buff to appreciate the arts, but masterpieces like Warsaw’s Grand Theatre makes visitors fall in love without seeing a single play.  Not even a past violently interrupted by bombing and years sitting in shambles could stop the theater from becoming a beloved attraction. 

Now restored, its new façade produced a need to fill its seats with eclectic performances. Since the days of the Renaissance, Poland has become influential by housing beautiful buildings like the Grand Theatre that commonly preserve the mystic of opera and drama within its elaborate features.

Cleveland, Ohio

When it comes to theater, Cleveland may not be as popular as the vibrant Theater District on Broadway in New York City, but when people are seeking great onstage presence they flock to the city’s Playhouse Square.  America’s biggest performance center for theatrical art offers a wide spectrum of events to keep guests continuously sauntering through its grand doors. 

With famous comedians causing an eruption of laughter and the amazing jazz sounds floating through the atmosphere, there’s never a dull moment here. The Playhouse Square has just as much excitement blaring through its halls as any other major theatrical venue, offering a raw individualistic experience as each entertainer pours his heart into his work. The stage creates a voice for the artists who find delight in providing an escape beneath dimming lights, allowing each spectator to embrace the flow of energy that can only be experienced through live acting.

Vienna, Austria

A great way to become familiar with the culture of Austria is by visiting one of its many theaters; after all, you might find one on almost every corner. Woven into its heritage, the stage may be home for many of its citizens, and with such beautifully decked out venues it is easy to see why.  Some may say when it comes to putting on a dynamic show, the city of Vienna rules because many of its theaters host hundreds of eloquent concerts a year.  

Even if you aren’t fluent in German, that's no reason to miss out on one of Austria's many shows. And with each theater more intricately decorated than the last, visitors can expect superb performances to match.