Monday, October 29, 2018

Theatre Americana Exhibit Opens Saturday, November 3

Altadena Historical Museum’s new exhibit “Theatre Americana Remembered,” opens Saturday, November 3, with a reception from 2pm to 4pm at the Museum’s Community Center home, 730 E. Altadena Drive (next to the Sheriff’s station.)

The exhibit focuses on a locally famous gem which brightened the Altadena community for over sixty years, providing a wonderful outlet for creativity, innovation, and fun for adults and children while showcasing original American plays.

Val Zavala, longtime KCET personality and Altadena resident, will moderate a panel of former Theatre Americana members during the reception. Hear their memories, see highlights from this important example of Altadena dedication to the arts, and enjoy light refreshments.

Born during America’s Little Theater movement in the 1930s, Theatre Americana was a playwright’s workshop, an artistic endeavor, and a popular part of Altadena’s social scene. It was the driving force in securing New Deal WPA funding to create Farnsworth Park and construct the Davies Building, Altadena’s first recreation center.

“Theatre Americana gave playwrights a chance to hone their skills,” said Historical Society president Kathy Hoskins, “It was a family affair, with set creators, costumers, make-up artists, and technical assistants as important as authors, actors and directors – and frequent, fabulous parties.”
The exhibit will run from November 2018 through October 2019.

For more information call or e-mail Jean Phillips 626-797-8098/phillipjean@charter.net