West Valley Playhouse

The West Valley Playhouse, also known as the Woodland Hills Theatre, is a prominent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 7507 Topanga Blvd., Canoga Park, California 91303. The Playhouse has established itself as a respected institution in the West San Fernando Valley and the broader Los Angeles area, known for bringing quality live theatre to the local community. Founded by Jon Berry, who has served as the Artistic and Producing Director since the theatre's inception, the West Valley Playhouse has garnered acclaim for its commitment to the arts. Under Berry's leadership, the Playhouse has been recognized for its dedication to presenting a blend of commercially successful Broadway shows as well as lesser-known plays that contribute to the rich tapestry of theatrical heritage. Jon Berry's contributions to the theatre have been significant. He has been nominated multiple times for the Valley Theatre League’s Artistic Director Achievement Award and has won directorial awards for productions such as "Gigi" (1996), "The Fantasticks" (1998), and "Don’t Dress for Dinner" (2000). As an actor, Berry has an extensive professional background, having worked in New York, Kentucky, New Mexico, and Los Angeles. He originated the role of Eddie Hayhurst in Horton Foote’s Off-Broadway production of "The Roads to Home," for which he received critical acclaim. Berry's performance in "The Last Meeting of the Knights of the White Magnolia" earned him a Drama-Logue Award, and he has received multiple Valley Theatre League Awards for his acting prowess in various productions. The West Valley Playhouse's mission is to offer quality entertainment at affordable prices, ensuring accessibility to all members of the community it serves. The organization's history is marked by a commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, showcased in their diverse mainstage season, children's and family theatre productions, and educational outreach programs. The Board of Directors, including President Mary Paterson and members such as Jon Berry, Jennifer Berry, and Jerry Fischkes, oversees the governance of the Playhouse, ensuring that its mission and vision are upheld. The theatre's dedication to the arts is further exemplified by its active engagement with the community through auditions, ticket sales, and opportunities for donations, all of which are facilitated through its website, maintained by webmaster Marla "Peppy" Miller. The West Valley Playhouse continues to be a beacon of live theatre in the West San Fernando Valley, with a history of artistic achievement and a future committed to enriching the cultural landscape of the community.