West Virginia Public Theatre (WVPT) seeks to enhance the cultural environment of the state and region by providing quality professional programming and educational outreach experiences for all citizens.
We work diligently to sustain its reputation as the premier professional theatre company in West Virginia.
WVPT productions are mounted locally from start to finish making. The state of West Virginia recognizes us as the largest performing arts provider for children. For 20 years, the holiday show has reached 3,000 children annually from 16 counties in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. For many of these children, WVPT provides their first, and in some cases, only, exposure to live professional theatre.
We continue to receive exciting responses from teachers and principals about the joy it gives their students. The school systems attend at a discounted rate, and each year we provide study guides and other material for the teachers and students to promote literacy through the use of drama and theatre.
West Virginia Public Theatre began its first year in a tent on the parking lot behind Sheraton Lakeview Resort. Broadway star, Carol Lawrence, showed up with a broken leg. Dean Jones prayed for the rain to stop, and when it did, a vivid rainbow appeared. Finally, Judy Norton Taylor (oldest daughter on The Waltons) showed up. That is how we started.
Patrons
We have performed for over 1 million patrons.
Students
We have performed for over 150,000 school students who would have not otherwise had the opportunity to see a live theatrical experience.
Broadway Quality Productions
We have presented over 190 Broadway quality productions featuring talent from all across North America including those with extensive experience on Broadway, television and film.
We went through a major reorganization and the Board of Directors, now in partnership with the College of Creative Arts at WVU, has been working hard to ensure quality educational and entertainment programs for years to come. We hope you have enjoyed the past 30 wonderful seasons. We want to bring you many more seasons of exciting theatrical experiences.
West Virginia Public Theatre is grateful to enjoy major support from the following agencies, corporations, foundations, and government sources:
You too can help support West Virginia Theatre by donating to support our mission.