Theatre Charlotte: The Community Theatre of Charlotte, North Carolina

The Charlotte branch of the American Association of University Women created the Theatre Charlotte in 1927, in response to the amateur theater movement that was popular all across the United States at the time. The theatre is the oldest continuously producing theatre in North Carolina.

Going into its 83rd year, Theatre Charlotte has made its home in the historic Myers Park neighborhood since 1941; the first production was a reading of "Outward Bound" in 1928, which took place in the downtown Carnegie Library.

It's been a few years since I took in a production there, and it's time I went back. The theatre is housed in an unassuming, but charming building that seats just over 200 people. Don't be fooled by the modesty, though, because it's what happens on stage that inspires and engages the imaginations of not only Charlotteans, but people living in surrounding areas.

I bought a three-ticket package for my mother; it was really a Christmas gift for her, but since I would be taking her to the plays, I purchased tickets for myself as well. Over a three-month period we saw 'Walking Across Egypt', 'Little Shop of Horrors', and 'The Diary of Anne Frank.'

All three of the productions were professionally and expertly done. Not surprisingly, "The Diary of Anne Frank' was the most touching and gripping, with a great cast of supporting actors. The actresses who played Anne Frank's sister and mother were especially touching and realistic.

The theatre is cozy and offers snacks and beverages, including wine, during intermission. Women, take note, the restroom is small, so you may be waiting in line, but it moves pretty quickly because everyone is eager to get back to the show.

Theatre Charlotte is a non-profit venue and depends on support and around 500 volunteers per year to stay alive. Indeed, it is alive and kicking, boasting over 2600 performances of 420 mainstage productions over the years.

Upcoming plays for the 2010-11 season include 'Annie', 'Steel Magnolias', 'A Christmas Carol', 'The Graduate', 'The Glass Menagerie', and ' Rent.'

Individual tickets can be bought online, as well as season ticket plans in batches of ten and six. The Star Season Ticket Plan, which costs $95 for adults and $90 for seniors, guarantees seats to five Main Stage Productions. Cost for individual tickets vary. For example, 'Steel Magnolias', which will run October 29th through November 14, 2010 range from $8-24.

Want to go?

Theatre Charlotte
501 Queens Road
Charlotte, NC 28207
Phone: 704-376-3777
www.theatrecharlotte.org