There are a number of theatre organizations in the greater Huntsville/north Alabama area, and each has its own strengths. However, no other organization offers the opportunities or rewards that Renaissance Theatre provides. Simply put, few other companies would tackle the edgy, sometimes controversial plays often seen at RT, while at the same time providing "family friendly" and children's performances. It truly is a place with something for everyone, the most daring and exciting place for live theatre in town!
I have only recently gotten involved in community theatre and it was because of RT. I have been delighted, and often thrilled, by their productions. RT is brave enough to produce contemporary plays and musicals, and savvy enough to mix in just the right type and number of classic plays and musicals to please and entice a broad section of the Huntsville’s population. If you've ever been involved with theatre, you know that everyone is welcome to get involved; RT has something for the youngest to the most experienced. I cannot say enough good things about the positive impact of RT on this community. They set a high standard not often found in community theatre, to continue to operate such an award-winning community theatre, with top-notch productions, talent, sets, direction, music – on very little money. My wish is that every person has the joy of experiencing and loving RT as I have. Every time I walk into the lovely foyer, and into the depths of that stately building, so full of history, I transcend to another place. After seeing each show, I walk out those doors a better person.
As the parent of an actor involved with Renaissance Theatre shows, I can tell you it is a wonderful group! From both standpoints. He has made lifelong friends through Renaissance that he will always respect for the experience and opportunities they gave him. I loved the professional yet family closeness of Renaissance. They encouraged everyone to become involved and made us all feel like we are Renaissance. As a patron, I also enjoyed sitting back and being highly entertained for every performance that I have watched.
I am a patron of the theatre who has quickly become a friend to most of the major players. This is a very well-run and energetic bunch of people! They are serious about their craft and their work without taking themselves too seriously. I am impressed and amazed that they have taken the facilities at hand, and turned it into a first-class community theatre!
The theatre was founded in October of 1998 and I have been involved in keeping the non profit operating since that time acting as Artistic Director. WE have produced approximately ten productions a year on average since opening. We also produce "new" works by regional writers along with Broadway hits and musicals. We are located in a historical old mill building once used as store fronts and a basketball court upstairs, now turned into a theater with dressing rooms and storage. We lease this space and the rent has not changed since we moved opened.