Alton Little Theater

Alton Little Theater (ALT) is a community theater located at 2450 N. Henry Street in Alton, Illinois. Founded in 1933 by Dorothy Colonius, an English teacher with a passion for the dramatic arts, ALT has established itself as the longest-running community theater in the state of Illinois. As of 2023, the theater is preparing to celebrate its 90th consecutive season, a testament to its enduring presence and influence in the local arts community. With a history spanning over 800 productions, ALT has become an integral part of the cultural fabric of the greater Riverbend area, fostering partnerships and collaborations with other arts organizations. The theater's origins can be traced back to the vision of Dorothy Colonius, who, despite the challenges of her time, succeeded in creating a vibrant community theater. Her legacy was carried on by a group of educators and enthusiasts from various walks of life, who continued to nurture and expand the theater's reach. Following Dorothy's passing in 1979, she left behind an endowment that ensured the theater's ongoing operations. Over the years, ALT has been guided by the talents and dedication of individuals like Cliff Davenport, Edmund Young, Birdine Groshong, and Diana Enloe, who mentored new generations of theater aficionados. The mission of Alton Little Theater is to cultivate interest in theater arts, produce high-quality drama that adheres to the highest ideals of dramatic activity, and serve as a community center for the performing arts. The theater operates as a Board-Driven, Non-Equity Theater with Paid Production Staff and has been recognized as a thriving mid-size business with aspirations for continued growth. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, ALT has remained committed to artistic excellence and aims to be a cornerstone of the community and a regional destination. The governance of ALT is overseen by a Board of Directors for the 2023-2024 season, led by President Dr. Patrick Anderson. The board also includes a Vice-President, Secretary, and various members responsible for functions such as Fund-Raising, House Management, Ticketing, and Diversity & Inclusion. The theater's executive team comprises an Executive Director & Business Manager, Artistic Director, Technical Director, and Box Office Co-chairs. In addition to its regular season, ALT offers a Studio Series, concert coordination, and engages with the community through its email subscription service, providing updates on shows, special discounts, and exclusive events. The theater's ticket policy and additional information are accessible through its main office, ensuring that the community remains connected to its offerings. Alton Little Theater's commitment to providing a platform for the performing arts and its dedication to community engagement make it a cherished institution within Alton and beyond. As it approaches its 90th season, ALT continues to invite audiences to experience the joy and enrichment that live theater brings.