The History Of Community Theatre

dance theatre

When speaking about community theatre, it is important to know what they are, as they are usually amateur theatrical productions of children's theatre, musical theatre and dance theatre. Performers are usually from the local district and are unpaid, although sometimes professionals get involved as well. These theatres are a community's way of getting citizens together for a little cultural experience.

In actuality, most theatres around the country are community theatres. The real definition of a community theatre is a theatre that is community minded. Most theatre groups that are not from a community are traveling theatrical groups. The 1880s saw the beginning of "little theatre" in Europe, where people could see shows without having to visit the huge, expensive productions. By 1910, little theatre came to the United States and became more of an anti-Broadway endeavor. In the early 1900s, most theatre productions were done by traveling theatre groups, who all joined together to make "The Syndicate," which was basically a theatre company that took over the industry to make money, and prevent anyone else from being able to have a successful theatre company outside of the Syndicate. Of course, all throughout this time there were people fighting against the commercialization of theatre arts, and they were the ones who really got community theatres going, so it was shut down soon after.

In the early years, community theatres were even funded by the government, but when shows became too political, government funding was stopped. Community theatres of today are a little different than the old "little theatres," as most simply want to infuse a little culture into the lives of the local citizens. In many cases, these theatres are run by colleges and their theatre departments. These productions are often free of charge, or charge very little money to pay for costumes and other incidental expenses. Many also encourage the participation of children and other young people to let them develop theatrical skills, as well as to keep them busy so that they do not choose to get into trouble. Theatre is seen as a wholesome activity for young people to be involved with, and the fact that a production takes a lot of hard work and dedication is good as well.

It is always exciting to learn the history of something you are interested in. Learning the history of community theatre is exciting as well, as they are definitely an innovative and exciting way to get community members working together. Additionally, for those who aspire to become professional actors and to one day secure a part in a national theatre production, it is an exciting venue to learn and develop theatrical skills.