Wonder Theatre

==Wonder Theatre== Wonder Theatre, formerly known as Woodlawn Theatre, is a prominent nonprofit community theatre located in San Antonio, Texas. Established in 2012, Wonder Theatre has been dedicated to engaging the local community through live musical performances and educational programming. The theatre's mission is to foster the growth and sustainability of performing arts and education within the San Antonio area. ===History=== The history of the venue dates back to 1945 when it first opened its doors as Woodlawn Theatre, a prestigious movie palace designed by the renowned American architect John Eberson, who was celebrated for his atmospheric theatre designs. In 1960, the theatre gained further acclaim when Academy Award winner John Wayne hosted the world premiere of his film, "The Alamo." Over the years, Woodlawn Theatre experienced a series of transformations and challenges. It changed hands multiple times, served as a venue for various entertainment formats, and even faced closure. In 1975, it was acquired by Santikos Theatres, but eventually, it fell into disrepair. It housed the San Antonio Theater Center in 1979 and featured a laser-show tribute to Pink Floyd in 1986, among other events. After a period of decline, the venue was revitalized in 2006, with significant portions of the building being reconstructed. It then transitioned into a live performance community theatre, primarily hosting Broadway-style shows. In 2012, the non-profit organization Woodlawn Theatre Inc. was established by Kurt and Sherry Wehner, the current building owners, and the theatre began to offer musical productions and educational programs through the Woodlawn Academy for the Performing Arts. In 2013, the theatre was designated a 'City of San Antonio Historic Structure,' cementing its status as a historical landmark. In 2023, Woodlawn Theatre underwent a rebranding and was renamed Wonder Theatre, coinciding with its relocation to Wonderland of the Americas. ===Productions and Programs=== Wonder Theatre is renowned for its annual lineup of six Mainstage musical shows, which includes a blend of classic musicals such as "Anything Goes" and "Hello, Dolly," contemporary hits like "In The Heights" and Disney's "Beauty and the Beast," as well as adult-oriented shows such as "Avenue Q" and "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert." The theatre aims to present a diverse range of musical theatre productions to cater to a varied audience. ===Venue=== The theatre's historic venue, built in 1945, is noted for its art deco architecture and iconic outdoor marquee. It provides an intimate setting with a capacity of 260 floor seats and 80 balcony seats. The building features a charming lobby and a full-service concession stand. Free parking for events is available behind Vogue Beauty School. ===Community Engagement=== Wonder Theatre is deeply invested in community engagement. It holds open auditions for each production, welcoming local performing artists from the San Antonio area to participate. The theatre also boasts a live orchestra for each show, with musicians selected based on the needs of the production's Musical Director. ===Awards and Recognition=== Wonder Theatre has received numerous accolades, including Alamo Theatre Arts Council Globe Awards for various aspects of theatre production. It has also been voted Best Community Theatre by The San Antonio Current for five consecutive years, from 2014 to 2018. ===Support and Contact=== The theatre encourages community support through various initiatives, including the Wonder Theatre Capital Campaign and Marquee Membership. For more information on programming, tickets, and support, individuals can visit the theatre's official website or contact the organization directly.