GROSSE POINTE THEATRE, THE HISTORY AND LEGACY

In 1947 and 1948, Grosse Pointe Theatre’s founder, the late Russel Werneken, went door-to-door to secure funds to create a community theatre for Grosse Pointe area residents which offered close-to-home, quality theatrical productions. Now, more than 60 years later, from a humble nucleus of 38 charter members who had faith in Russ’ vision, Grosse Pointe Theatre has grown in membership to almost 450 people of all ages, from all walks of life, and from all parts of the greater Detroit metropolitan area.

Our first production was Booth Tarkington’s Clarence. Without permanent rehearsal or performance space in the early years we rehearsed in members’ basements and church halls and performed wherever space was available. In 1961 the new Fries Auditorium at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial became our permanent performance “home.”

A long search for our own office, rehearsal, and storage space resulted in the 1981 acquisition and year-long restoration of the historic building at 315 Fisher Rd. An addition built several years later houses our scene shop and additional costume storage.

Our relationship with the Grosse Pointe War Memorial, where our shows are staged, grows stronger every year. Through a series of special events Grosse Pointe Theatre raised over $65,000, which was used to replace all of the curtains on the community stage and to contribute to the construction of an elevator which offers the public barrier-free access to all floors of the Grosse Pointe War Memorial.

Other contributions to the community include: the annual awarding of theatrical scholarships to deserving high school students to be used for college or training classes; professionally mentored workshops open to all who are interested in the theatrical arts; a Youth on Stage program for children ages eight to 14; and entertainment at various community events through two outreach programs, one of which, Encore Players, features our Senior actors.

Grosse Pointe Theatre is a member of American Association of Community Theatres, Community Theatre Association of Michigan, Theatre Association of Michigan, and the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce. During our 63 year history we have assembled considerable resources which we are happy to share with other theatre arts groups. We invite you to get to know the many facets of GPT.

PAST SHOWS OF THE GROSSE POINTE THEATRE —