Boise Little Theater

Boise Little Theater is a local community theater with a rich history, having been established in 1948. It is one of the oldest volunteer-organized community theaters in the United States, known for its remarkable stability and dedication to the performing arts. The theater has a loyal membership, with some individuals having been involved for over four decades, including a few who have been with Boise Little Theater since its inception. The theater's journey has not been without adversity. In 1956, a tragic fire at Gowen Field destroyed the original theater building and resulted in the loss of two of its members. In response to this calamity, a new theater was constructed in the Fort Boise area of Boise City. This new venue is distinctive for its unique round shape, which has since become a recognized landmark in the city. Boise Little Theater maintains a comprehensive alphabetical listing of all the plays it has presented since its founding, which can be accessed for those interested in its extensive repertoire. Recognition within the Boise Little Theater community is highlighted by the Beulah Awards, which are akin to the Oscars in their prestige. The tradition began in 1949 when Sandra Price received the Best Actress Beulah for her role in "Stage Door." The Beulah Awards were conceptualized by Jean Sorrells and Marian Moehlmann in the early 1950s, and since then, they have been bestowed annually to the Best Actor and Best Actress at the theater's Awards Picnic each July. The current theater building is a testament to innovative architectural design, originally crafted by Arthur L. Troutner of Trus-dek Corp. It features curved laminated beams in the ceiling, which were among the first examples of this construction technique. Troutner, who later founded the Truss Joist Corporation, would frequently visit the theater to showcase the beams as an example of his company's work. The theater has undergone expansions that were part of Troutner's original vision, with the brickwork for the original structure being donated by Master Brick Mason Mr. Paul Moehlmann, Sr., and completed with the help of volunteers. To commemorate its first 60 years, Boise Little Theater has published a booklet detailing its history and growth. The theater continues to engage the community through its seasons, which include a variety of productions, as well as opportunities for local talent to participate through auditions. The organization also fosters involvement through memberships, a student club, and support initiatives like the "Be A Star" program and the Black Box. Additionally, Boise Little Theater maintains an active online presence through social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Pinterest, and Twitter, and encourages the public to support the theater by purchasing gala tickets and other promotional activities. Boise Little Theater has made a significant cultural impact on the Boise community, offering a platform for creative expression and bringing the joy of theater to audiences for over seven decades.