Pasadena Playhouse (Regional/National Tours)

Architect Elmer Grey’s jewel of a building opened in May 1925. Soon after, the Playhouse’s distinguished theater school began to train generations of performers. And in 1937 it was named California’s “official state theater.” For decades the Playhouse thrived, but the death of founder Gilmor Brown and heavy financial burdens forced a closure in 1969.
Fearing the building would be demolished, many community leaders worked to revive the theatre. A listing on the National Register of History Places saved the Playhouse from the wrecker’s ball, and a slow but steady renewal began. By 1986, artistic leaders Susan Dietz and Steve Rothman were presenting Rebecca De Mornay in Born Yesterday, Barbara Rush in Steel Magnolias , Gregory Harrison and Marilu Henner in Carnal Knowledge , Lea Thompson in Bus Stop , and Brian Stokes Mitchell in Mail.
The momentum continues under the leadership of Sheldon Epps, who programs such award winning writers as Tom Stoppard, Neil Simon, Alan Ayckbourn, Christopher Hampton, Stephen Sondheim, David Hare, and Pulitzer Prize winners Nilo Cruz and John Patrick Shanley. The dressing rooms buzz with the dramatic and comedic talent of Hal Holbrook, Phylicia Rashad, Harry Groener, Carol Lawrence, Stacey Keach, Stephanie Zimbalist, Robert Picardo, JoAnne Worley, Conrad Bain, Mare Winningham, Bea Arthur, Paul Dooley, CCH Pounder, Brooke Adams, Shirley Knight and Diahann Carroll among many others.
At the end of 2005, the Playhouse board and staff launched the “Next Stage Campaign.” This major fundraising effort will support further restoration of the historic building, modernization of the Balcony theatre, and expanded outreach and education programs.

Theatre Information:
39 South El Molino Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91101
US

Box Office: (626) 356-PLAY (7529)
Group Sales: For groups of 15+ : (714) 282-9485

Public Transportation:

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