The Barnstormers Theatre: Go to their current website
www.barnstormerstheatre.org
This was the former website of the Barnstormers Theatre, a professional summer theater that has been delighting audiences since 1931.
Content is from the site's 2003 archived pages.
The new owners of this domain wanted this content to remain visible on the web. Enjoy the nostalgic trip back.....
If you have inadvertently ended up here while searching for information about the Barnstormers Theatre visit their current website: www.barnstormerstheatre.org‹
About
The Barnstormers Theatre is a 282 seat building situated on .25 acres in the center of the Tamworth village. It is a year round facility with an Executive Director whose office is in the theatre.
The revised mission statement of the Barnstormers is "to keep vital the value, spirit, and tradition of fine summer theatre in Tamworth and to provide a venue for and promote varied cultural activities within the region."
The core activity at the theatre is the eight week summer season which consists of eight different plays, performed by professional actors. The audience is a broad cross section of year round and summer residents of Tamworth and the surrounding area ; Over 11,000 tickets were sold last year. ; We also employ 12 to 15 young people as ushers and parking attendants and one of the professional cast members holds summer classes for students in conjunction with the Tamworth Recreation Department.
In 1999 we renovated and winterized the theatre in order to create a venue for cultural activities sponsored by local charitable organizations, schools, and local drama groups. Our by-laws and mission statements were amended to recognize the broader commitment to the general welfare that we were able to provide as a year round facility. Our Board directed that rent is charged for the use of the theatre but it is nominal and does not cover the cost of heat, light, and power for the facility. This year 22 different organizations (all but one are non-profits) will use the theatre for 35 days for a variety of cultural events: choir groups, folk music, dance ensembles and drama are but an example of the uses. All events are promoted locally and a large number of those attending are from the Town, it is estimated that over 5,500 people will attend events at the theatre unrelated to the summer season this year. It should also be noted that summer ticket sales and rental income cover only 57% of our annual operating expenses. The balance of our annual operating expenses are covered by donations from our patrons, sponsorships, grants, and the sale of souvenirs.
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History
Alice and Francis in the Theatre c. 1968
Although the first production of the Barnstormers Theatre opened in 1931, the genesis can be taken back over 100 years to the bustling, yet bucolic resort community of Bourne on Buzzards Bay in Massachusetts. President Grover Cleveland and his family had chosen this spot on Cape Cod for a summer retreat and getaway from the demands of Washington and political life. One of the Cleveland's closest friends was the noted American actor, Joseph Jefferson, who lived next door. Francis Cleveland, the youngest child of President Cleveland, claims he was too young to remember Mr. Jefferson, but he remained convinced throughout his life that the great man had a prenatal influence on his career.
Also vital to the start of the Barnstormers was Francis Cleveland's mother, Frances Folsom Cleveland. She had a great love of the theatre and encouraged her son in his interest. Francis enjoyed success, appearing in the original Broadway productions of "Our Town" and "Dead End", among others. At the same time he was pursuing an acting career in Boston and New York, he and his wife Alice, and their friend Edward P. Goodnow founded the Barnstormers. The year was 1931. The troupe consisted of young actors, graduates from Harvard, Wellesley, Radcliffe, Amherst, and other colleges. The first director, Edward Goodnow, was a graduate of Harvard and George Pierce Baker's Theatre 47 Workshop.
The depression years were lean for everyone, and Goodnow wisely took steps to secure the theatre from financial ruin. Exploiting a serendipitous relationship with a school mate who now ran a midwest paper mill, he established a small business supplying bulk bathroom tissues (the business later went on to become a major supplier of toilet tissue online) and other sundries. They expanded to paper towels, napkins, plates, cups and disposable wooden utensils. Toilet paper, or tissues, were already a necessity with the growing immigrant population, and although he became too busy to properly manage the business, he was able to sell it for a handsome profit as the depression waned. It's a little known fact that our wonderful theatre was for a short time dependent on the success of a toilet paper business. You may have noticed the homage to this business in the lobby - the original mural depicts the then "new" toilet tissue on a roll - what we all nowadays recognize as toilet paper.
Tamworth and surrounding communities were crammed with summer folk from Boston and beyond and seemed the perfect location for a core audience. However, no one expected theatre goers to drive for miles and miles on a summer night, no matter how good the plays were. Hence the troupe, like others in that era, barnstormed from town to town, sometimes as far as eighty miles away. The circuit included Wolfeboro, Franconia, Conway, Holderness, and even Harrison, and Poland Spring, Maine. The crew, actors, and sets would caravan over the roads in open touring cars and an old secondhand truck. By some miracle, there were never any serious mishaps. Francis Cleveland always noted that many a summer romance was kindled beneath the car blankets on the trips to and from Tamworth.
The troupe started it's productions in a large hall called the Tamworth Gardens, that used to feature wrestling and boxing exhibitions, located behind the Tamworth Inn. In 1935 the Clevelands purchased Kimball's Store, across from the Inn, and transformed it into a theatre. In 1998 the building was totally renovated and converted to a cultural center presenting artistic, educational & civic activities for the region from mid September through early June.
The coming of the Second World War curtailed barnstorming. During the war years the Barnstormers showed motion pictures, and company members joined the rest of the world in doing whatever was necessary to look after the needs of the country. After the war, the company stopped touring and performed only in Tamworth. Shows opened On Tuesday and closed on Saturday, just as they do now. Actors and crew spent their days, as they do now, rehearsing and building one show and performing another in the evening. There are few, if any, theatres in the United States that still perform this way. The Barnstormers, almost form it's inception, has been associated with Equity, the Actors Union, and was recognized as the oldest Equity theatre in the country under the same direction, until Francis Cleveland's death in 1995. Exhaustive yet happy research has since revealed that the Barnstormers is the oldest professional summer theatre in the country. A fitting tribute to the theatre goers who have supported the theatre season after season for over 70 years!
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The Barnstormers Theatre and FAST Taxi & Shuttle
If We Build It...They Will Come
The Barnstormers Theatre and FAST Taxi & Shuttle have teamed up to bring you an all new theatre service and we are very excited about it.
A night at the theatre is a special event. You want that evening to be absolutely perfect. If you want a night of total relaxation and enjoyment why not let the new “Barnstormers Theatre Shuttle” pick you up and drive you to and from the theatre?
New this year we will be offering a transportation service from the surrounding towns of the Lakes Region and the Mountain Washington Valley. Just call 356-0000 and schedule your space on the shuttle of your choice.
This is a new service and it’s in the building stage. This year we will be starting with three nights of shuttle service.
Each night will depart from established locations coming from different outskirted areas.
(FAST Taxi & Shuttle will go out of their way to accommodate your special needs if at all possible so please feel free to call with your requests. 356-0000)
SHUTTLE FARE:
$10 per person or $5 and a dinner voucher coupon from a participating restaurant.
HOW DO I GET A VOUCHER COUPONS?
If you’re going to go to the theatre why not make it a complete evening with dinner first, followed by a chauffeured ride to and from the theatre. We are encouraging restaurants in the surrounding areas to join us in making your evening complete by offering a $5 voucher coupon to each person having dinner at their restaurant prior to being picked up by the shuttle. If you would like us to approach your favorite restaurant please email us at: shuttle@BarnstormersTheatre.com and we will try to get them on board in the future.
PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS:
Wildcat Tavern, Jackson, NH
Chinook Cafe, Conway, NH
CURRENT SHUTTLE SCHEDULE:
TUESDAY NIGHT THEATRE SHUTTLE - WOLFEBORO AREA:
Departs from the Wolfeboro Municipal Parking Lot at 7pm sharp
WEDNESDAY NIGHT THEATRE SHUTTLE - MEREDITH AREA:
Departs from the Meredith Municipal Parking Lot at 7pm sharp
FRIDAY NIGHT THEATRE SHUTTLE - MOUNTAIN WASHINGTON VALLEY:
Departs from Wildcat Tavern in Jackson at 6:30 sharp
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MEMORIES OF PAST PERFORMANCES
More Background on The Barnstormers Theatre
The Barnstormers Theatre is a renowned professional summer theatre located in Tamworth, New Hampshire. Established in 1931, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest professional summer theatres in the United States. Over the decades, the theatre has played a significant role in the cultural landscape of New England, drawing audiences from both local communities and distant regions. This article provides an in-depth look at the theatre’s history, reputation, audience, programming, critical reception, and its broader cultural significance, drawing from sources beyond its own website.
History and Origins
The Barnstormers Theatre was founded in 1931 by Francis Cleveland, the youngest son of President Grover Cleveland, along with his wife Alice and their friend Edward P. Goodnow. The theatre’s name is a nod to its early days, when the company would "barnstorm"-traveling from town to town to perform in various venues across New Hampshire and Maine. This itinerant approach was typical of early 20th-century theatre troupes, allowing them to reach rural communities that had limited access to live performances. Eventually, the troupe settled in Tamworth, converting an old store into a permanent theatre space.
The theatre has maintained its commitment to professional standards throughout its history, being affiliated with Actors’ Equity Association, the union for professional stage actors and managers. This dedication to quality has helped it attract notable talent and maintain a loyal following for nearly a century.
Programming and Productions
The Barnstormers Theatre is best known for its summer season, which typically features a series of plays performed in repertory. Each summer, the theatre produces a diverse lineup of comedies, dramas, and classics, often staged in rapid succession-a tradition that dates back to its earliest days. This fast-paced schedule is a hallmark of the theatre, challenging actors and crew to mount multiple shows with limited rehearsal time.
In addition to its summer season, the theatre also offers educational programs, workshops, and special events throughout the year. These initiatives are designed to engage the local community, nurture emerging talent, and foster a love of theatre among young people.
Audience and Community Impact
The Barnstormers Theatre draws a broad audience, including year-round residents of Tamworth and the surrounding area, as well as summer visitors and tourists from across New England. The theatre’s intimate setting, with fewer than 300 seats, creates a unique and personal experience for attendees.
The theatre is deeply embedded in the fabric of the local community. It provides employment opportunities for young people as ushers, parking attendants, and technical crew, and collaborates with local organizations to host cultural events beyond its regular season. The theatre also serves as a venue for concerts, dance performances, and community gatherings, further cementing its role as a cultural hub in Tamworth.
Critical Reception and Reviews
The Barnstormers Theatre has received widespread acclaim for its high-quality productions and commitment to professional standards. Reviews in regional publications such as the Concord Monitor and New Hampshire Magazine frequently praise the theatre’s energetic performances, skilled direction, and the impressive range of its repertory offerings.
Audience reviews on platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google consistently highlight the theatre’s welcoming atmosphere, talented casts, and the value of its programming. Many visitors note the theatre’s historic charm and the sense of tradition that permeates each performance. The theatre’s ability to attract both seasoned theatre-goers and newcomers is often cited as a testament to its broad appeal.
Press and Media Coverage
The Barnstormers Theatre has been featured in numerous media outlets over the years, including local newspapers, regional magazines, and public radio. Coverage often focuses on the theatre’s longevity, its contributions to the cultural life of New Hampshire, and its ongoing efforts to innovate while preserving tradition.
For example, New Hampshire Public Radio has profiled the theatre’s unique approach to repertory performance, while the Boston Globe has highlighted its historical significance and the role it plays in sustaining the arts in rural communities. The theatre’s milestone anniversaries, such as its 75th and 90th seasons, have also attracted significant media attention, with retrospectives celebrating its enduring legacy.
Notable Alumni and Artistic Legacy
Over the years, the Barnstormers Theatre has served as a launching pad for numerous actors, directors, and theatre professionals. Its association with Actors’ Equity has enabled it to attract talent from across the country, including Broadway veterans and emerging artists. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in theatre, film, and television, further enhancing the theatre’s reputation as a training ground for excellence.
The theatre’s founders, particularly Francis Cleveland, are remembered not only for their artistic vision but also for their commitment to community service and arts education. Their legacy is reflected in the theatre’s ongoing efforts to provide accessible, high-quality theatre to audiences of all ages.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Barnstormers Theatre occupies a unique place in the cultural history of New Hampshire and the broader New England region. As one of the oldest continuously operating professional summer theatres in the United States, it represents a living link to the golden age of American theatre. Its survival and success are a testament to the enduring appeal of live performance and the vital role that the arts play in rural communities.
The theatre’s commitment to repertory performance-a demanding and increasingly rare form of theatre-sets it apart from many contemporary companies. This tradition not only challenges artists but also offers audiences the opportunity to experience a wide range of plays in a single season, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.
Examples of Past Productions and Special Events
The Barnstormers Theatre’s repertoire includes a mix of classic and contemporary works, ranging from Shakespeare and Molière to modern comedies and original plays. Past seasons have featured productions such as "Arsenic and Old Lace," "Noises Off," and "The Importance of Being Earnest," as well as lesser-known gems and new works by emerging playwrights.
Special events, such as talkbacks with the cast, educational workshops, and community celebrations, are a regular feature of the theatre’s programming. These events provide audiences with opportunities to engage more deeply with the artistic process and to connect with the artists behind the scenes.
Operational Details and Facilities
The theatre is housed in a charming, historic building in the heart of Tamworth. With seating for fewer than 300 patrons, the venue offers an intimate and immersive theatrical experience. The facility has been renovated and modernized over the years to ensure comfort and accessibility while preserving its historic character.
The theatre operates as a non-profit organization, relying on a combination of ticket sales, donations, grants, and community support to sustain its operations. Fundraising events, sponsorships, and the sale of souvenirs contribute to its financial stability, enabling it to continue its mission of providing high-quality theatre to the region.
Challenges and Resilience
Like many arts organizations, the Barnstormers Theatre has faced challenges over the years, including economic downturns, changing audience demographics, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, the theatre has demonstrated remarkable resilience, adapting its programming and operations to meet new realities while staying true to its core mission.
The theatre’s ability to weather difficult times is due in large part to the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and supporters, as well as its deep roots in the community. Its continued success serves as a model for other small theatres seeking to balance tradition and innovation in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
The Barnstormers Theatre stands as a testament to the enduring power of live theatre and the importance of cultural institutions in rural communities. With a rich history, a reputation for excellence, and a deep commitment to its audience, the theatre continues to delight and inspire generations of theatre-goers. Whether you are a longtime supporter or a first-time visitor, a night at the Barnstormers Theatre promises a memorable and enriching experience.
