Walnut Street Theatre was recently designated the State Theatre of Pennsylvania. Built in 1809, the Walnut Street Theatre is the oldest theater in America. During the theater's long history, it has reflected overall development of American theater. Its earliest performance was the "New Circus" (an equestrian act) and its first play was Sheridan's THE RIVALS in 1812. The Walnut Street Theatre marked the premiere and final stage performance of Edwin Forrest, a native Pennsylvanian and one of America's finest actors of the theater.