Chattanooga Theatre Centre

The Chattanooga Theatre Centre, originally known as the Little Theatre of Chattanooga, is a historic institution in the world of community theatre. Established in 1923, it stands as one of the oldest, largest, and most active community theatres in the United States. Celebrating its centennial in the 2023-2024 season, the Theatre Centre has been a cornerstone of the arts in Chattanooga, often referred to as the Scenic City. Throughout its storied history, the Chattanooga Theatre Centre has persevered through challenging times, including the Great Depression and World War II, earning the distinction of being the nation's oldest continuously running community theatre. With a commitment to producing high-caliber theatrical experiences, the Centre presents an impressive slate of 11 productions annually, drawing in audiences exceeding 30,000 people each year. The Theatre Centre was conceived in the early 1920s by a visionary local, Othneil Brown, and E.Y. Chapin, a banker with a passion for theatre. Their idea was to enrich Chattanooga's cultural landscape with a non-profit community theatre. The founders spent six months planning and rallying support from influential residents, leading to the incorporation of the Little Theatre on December 3, 1923. The theatre's inaugural production, "Dear Me," premiered on April 28, 1924, at the War Memorial Auditorium, and subsequent performances were held at various locations including the Bijou Theater and Chattanooga High School. Recognizing the need for a dedicated space, the theatre eventually moved into the renovated Fire Hall No. 4 in 1926. Despite the economic downturn of the Great Depression, the Little Theatre thrived, producing more plays than ever before by 1935 and receiving high praise from local media for its contribution to the arts and culture of Chattanooga. During World War II, the theatre continued to offer a respite from the hardships of the time, with a diverse cast of community members involved in its productions. As the theatre grew, the need for a new venue became apparent. In 1962, a new building was constructed at 400 River Street on the North Shore, and the facility has been expanded over the years to include the Circle Theatre for children's productions and the establishment of an official Youth Theatre program in 1983. In 1996, after a significant fundraising effort and expansion, the theatre reopened with its current name, the Chattanooga Theatre Centre. The Centre has since continued to offer a wide range of theatrical productions, educational programs, and community engagement opportunities, including a 10-year commitment to stage August Wilson's entire American Century Cycle. As the Chattanooga Theatre Centre approaches its 100th anniversary, it remains a vital part of the city's cultural fabric, dedicated to enriching the intellectual, emotional, and cultural development of people of all ages through high-quality theatre and participation opportunities. The history of the Chattanooga Theatre Centre was documented by Southern Adventist University student Kelly Gustrowsky in 2020, capturing the essence of this cherished institution's enduring legacy.