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Our History
Organized in 1922, Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre (known from its
inception to 1928 as the Drama League or Club) began its first season
in 1923 with the production of Rudyard Kipling’s “The Elephant’s
Child”. Directed by Mollie Weston Kent, “The Elephant’s Child” was
performed at what is now Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre.
Little Theatre was incorporated as a non-profit, 501(c) 3 Corporation
by decree of Judge Valentine on June 17, 1929. Bernard F. Burgunder,
Brandon A. Gearhart, Mrs. Fredrick Hillman, Mrs. Simon Long, Todd
Rippard, Raijean Breese, Mrs. Franck G. Darte, Annette Evans, Mrs. Hugh
Jenkins, Mrs. Ernest G. Smith, Daniel W. Davis and Leonard W. Parkhurst
were the members, incorporators, and directors.
Since 1923, Little Theatre has reached over two million
people, presenting hundreds of productions.
During the 20's and 30's, "little theatres" proved to be a testing
ground for new plays and, talent as well as a place to develop
professionalism, foster self-expression, and have fun!
Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre is the 3rd continuously running
community theatre in the United States, and is still ranked among the
10 best "little theatre" groups in the land. A charter member of
American National Theatre and Academy, Little Theatre has always tried
to reach across the nation to touch hands with other theatrical groups,
occasionally traveling to perform as well as welcome traveling players
finding their way to Wilkes-Barre. Famous actors and actresses have
visited and performed on our stage. We love show business—and know
that this love must be shared to be enjoyed.
Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre made its home at the 537 N. Main Street
Playhouse in 1957. The building, an old movie theatre, was purchased
in 1956 and renovated for theatrical stage use. In 1972, because of
renewed federal and state interest in the fine arts, the Pennsylvania
Theatre Association approved the building for production, and remarked
on the splendid facilities of the stage and equipment. Our lighting
board was a gift from Dorothy Dickson Darte, one of our founders, and
was specially built by Fuchs, and expert and author on stage lighting.
Annette Evans provided our stage curtains during her lifetime, and the
foundation has provided for Little Theatre, one of her favorite
"children", with grants since her death. In addition, many other
foundations and grant sources have been very generous over the years.
The members of Little Theatre look back with pride at our rich history
of performers and productions as we begin our 85th season of
excellence, and look forward to many more seasons of quality productions.
As we have since 1922, it gives us great pride and pleasure to fulfill
our Mission Statement: "To offer theatrical productions and various
community services which educate, entertain, and broaden the creative
experiences of our audiences, as well as our participants and
contributors. As part of that goal, we provide training opportunities
for people of all ages to develop their unique talents. As a community
theatre, Little Theatre of Wilkes-Barre is open to all residents of
Northeastern Pennsylvania and invites their participation in fulfilling
its mission."
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