Our History
In the early 1930’s a group of talented, concerned citizens got together and formed the Morristown Little Theatre. There first plays were PIGS and A BILL OF DIVORCEMENT. It was an organization that for many years would hold performances in member’s homes and on local school stages, while Theatre enthusiasts from around the area supplied talent and muscled for directing, building and acting in each production. Over the decades this traveling group of troubadours would change into the Morristown Theatre Guild and still remains one of the oldest community theatres in the state of Tennessee.
It was due to the generosity of a volunteer, Miriam Caldwell, that the Guild was able to purchase a much-needed performance space. The unique, octagonal structure was originally built as a Lutheran church in 1880 and was used by many church groups as well as a school at one time. For decades the Guild Playhouse would be the home of local performers, actors, artists, and Theatre lovers. Theatre Guild has always been operated and managed by a Board of Directors – dedicated Arts lovers who devote their time and talents to upholding the mission statement of the organization and bring quality theatre that “inspires, challenges, educates, and empowers “ Lakeway area audiences and artists. Today that board consists of 18 people overseeing five productions annual in addition to educational programs and special events
Over the years the Theatre Guild has inspired thousands of people, some have gone on to substantial careers – Disney wardrobe, Opera, actors, musicians, singers, artists, Imagineers, designers, producers, while others have simply enjoyed the entertainment being offered. Many programs, photos, articles and information can be found on the Guild’s secondary facebook page – Theatre Guild Scrapbook.
The Guild is currently without a permanent home and, for several years, has been performing like its original founders did – in a variety of local venues and performance spaces. Plans are continuing to Rebuild The Guild and find a permanent home that can be used, not only for the normal season of shows – but offer workshops, children’s theatre and additional entertainment opportunities. Morristown and the Lakeway area have always supported Theatre and the Arts and the Guild looks forward to 80 more years producing what it loves.
Morristown Theatre Guild 