Sierra Repertory Theatre facts for kids

Sierra Repertory Theatre is a special theater company in Sonora, California, USA. It puts on many different shows, like exciting dramas, fun musicals, and hilarious comedies. The theater was started in 1980 by a group of friends: David and Kathryn Kahn, Doug Brennan, and Sara and Dennis Jones. They all met while performing in summer plays at the Fallon House Theatre in Columbia, as part of the University of the Pacific drama program.

Starting the Show: The First Theater

The founders of Sierra Rep began by turning an old tin warehouse, which used to store beer, into their very first theater. This cozy space in East Sonora had 99 seats. Their first play there was an exciting version of Dracula, which opened in February 1980. They used this theater for more than ten years. In the mid-1990s, they made the space bigger, creating a 202-seat theater with sloped seating. This design made sure everyone had a great view of the stage.

A Historic Home: The Fallon House Theatre

In 1997, Sierra Repertory Theatre was chosen to be the main theater company at the historic Fallon House Theatre. This theater is located in Columbia State Historic Park. For the founders, this was a very meaningful moment, like coming home. Their first show at the Fallon House was Something's Afoot, which started in October of that year. Since then, Sierra Rep has put on over 1,400 performances at the Fallon House. More than 240,000 people have come to watch their shows there! In 2004, the theater celebrated its 25th birthday with a special performance of the famous musical Cats on its small stage.

Who Runs the Show?

Doug Brennan, one of the founders, works as the stage manager for the Fallon House theater. Scott Viets is the Producing Artistic Director. He directs and creates the dances for most of the company's musicals, and also directs some dramas. Scott Viets and Becky Saunders, who is the Managing Director, took over these important roles in August 2017. They took over from the founders, Dennis and Sara Jones.

Reaching Many People

Every year, Sierra Repertory Theatre puts on about 8 different shows across its two theater locations. More than 65,000 people come to see these performances each year! The theater company also plays an active role in the community. They help host fundraising events and put on special shows for local schools.

Programs for Young Performers

In November 2013, Sierra Repertory Theatre announced an exciting new program for young people. This youth program started with a December performance of a children's musical called Jason and the Argonauts. This musical was created by actor Ralph Krumins, who also became the new Education Director for the theater. In March 2014, the company began its 35th season with the musical "Les Miserables." During this season, they welcomed their 1,000,000th audience member, which was a huge milestone!