The Players at The Barker Playhouse

==The Players (Providence, RI)== '''The Players''' is a historic and cultural institution located in Providence, Rhode Island, known for its dedication to the dramatic arts. Founded in 1909 by Henry Ames Barker along with Professor Thomas Crosby, Jr. of Brown University, The Players has a storied history as a hub for amateur theatrical productions and is recognized as America's oldest continuously operating little theatre. ===Origins and History=== The origins of The Players can be traced back to the Talma Club, founded in 1887, and its predecessor, the Amateur Dramatic Club. Upon its establishment, The Players quickly became a cornerstone of Providence's cultural scene. Under the leadership of its founders, the club's main activity has been the production of a diverse range of plays, from classics by Abbott and Zweig to works by Shakespeare and Sondheim. From 1909 to 1932, The Players performed at various venues across Providence, including The Talma Theatre, Infantry Hall, and The Elks Auditorium. In 1932, a bequest from the late Henry A. Barker facilitated the move to the club's permanent home, The Barker Playhouse. ===The Barker Playhouse=== The Barker Playhouse, located at the corner of Benefit and Transit Streets, now designated Barker Way, is a significant architectural and historical landmark. The land originally housed a structure built in 1742, which was replaced by St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in 1839. The Greek Revival church that now serves as the playhouse is noted for its simplicity and severity in design. The property was acquired by The Players in 1932, thanks to the funds left by Henry Ames Barker. The playhouse complex includes the main building on Benefit Street, which houses the main stage, as well as additional structures such as Talma and the Ice Box. These buildings have been adapted over the years to serve the needs of The Players and contribute to its status as one of Providence's most cherished cultural legacies. ===Mission and Activities=== The mission of The Players is to promote artistic creativity, cultural heritage, and education through the dramatic arts. As a non-profit theater, it is committed to providing opportunities for the public to experience amateur theatrical productions. The organization prides itself on enriching the community through collaborations with other performing arts and civic organizations. The Players' season runs from October to May, featuring five major productions on the Main Stage. Additionally, the Joseph W. Riker, Jr. Green Room serves as a smaller stage for various projects, including one-act plays and seminars. Members of The Players are involved in all aspects of production, from acting and directing to set design, costuming, and technical roles. ===The Barker Foundation=== The Barker Foundation was established in 1932, following the death of Henry A. Barker in 1929. The foundation, comprised of nine trustees, manages the Playhouse properties and an investment portfolio. Its purpose is to support The Players and other performing arts organizations in Providence, ensuring the legacy of Henry A. Barker's vision for drama as a vital part of community life. The Players, with its rich history and ongoing contributions to the arts, remains a vibrant and sustainable part of Providence's cultural fabric, fostering talent, confidence, compassion, and friendship through its many programs and productions. ==External Links== * [Official Website of The Players] [[Category:Theatre companies in Rhode Island]] [[Category:Arts organizations established in 1909]] [[Category:1909 establishments in Rhode Island]] [[Category:Non-profit organizations based in Providence, Rhode Island]]