Theatricum Botanicum facts for kids
The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum is a special outdoor theater. It's located in Topanga Canyon, California. Actor Will Geer started it in 1973. The theater is named after an old book about plants called Theatrum Botanicum. It's a place where you can watch plays and enjoy nature.
In the 1950s, Will Geer faced a tough time. He was "blacklisted." This meant he couldn't get acting jobs. People were stopped from working if they had certain political beliefs. Geer had to sell his home. He moved his family to a small plot of land. They grew their own food there.
His friend, the famous singer Woody Guthrie, lived nearby. Soon, their place became a spot for many artists. It was like an artists' community. Even after Will Geer passed away, his family kept the theater going. His former wife, Herta Ware, helped a lot. She also acted in plays there.
The theater is set in a natural mountain canyon. It's used for plays by Shakespeare and other writers. Sometimes, concerts are held there too.
History of the Theatricum Botanicum
The story of the Theatricum Botanicum began in the early 1950s. Will Geer, like many actors, was affected by the "blacklisting" period. He opened a small theater on his Topanga property. It was a place for actors and folk singers who couldn't find work.
Geer also grew a large garden. Since he couldn't act in Hollywood, his family made a living. They sold vegetables, fruit, and herbs. They also offered theater performances.
In 1973, Will Geer became very popular. He played Grandpa on the TV show The Waltons. With this new fame, he brought his family together. They were all working actors by then. Together, they formed a non-profit group. This group became The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum.
People came to watch free shows. They saw plays by Shakespeare and folk performances. Famous artists like Pete Seeger and Arlo Guthrie also performed.
When Will Geer died in 1978, his family decided to make the theater even better. They wanted it to be a professional theater. They also added educational programs and music events. The local community helped a lot. They gave their time and materials to improve the theater.
In 1983, the Santa Monica Pier was damaged in a storm. Wood planks from the pier were saved. These planks were used to build the main stage at the Theatricum. That same year, the theater started offering contracts to its main actors. Today, it's one of the few theaters in Los Angeles. It has 299 seats and is known for its great shows.
Since 1987, the theater has included new plays each year. These are performed alongside at least one Shakespeare play. They also have special concerts for kids. Each spring and fall, the theater hosts many concerts.
In the past, the Theatricum has offered other fun events. These included story performances for families. They also had outdoor cabaret shows. The popular Woody Guthrie Show, which Will Geer used to perform, was also a favorite.
The main stage was updated in 1997. The changes made the theater more comfortable. They also made it easier for everyone to access. But the natural beauty of the theater was kept.
Will Geer's Unique Vision
Will Geer loved both acting and plants. He combined these passions at the Theatricum. He made sure that every plant mentioned in Shakespeare's plays grew there. It was like a living garden from Shakespeare's time.
Will Geer's ashes are at the theater site. There's also a statue that looks like him. His former wife, Herta Ware, also has her ashes there.
