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Best Amateur Theatre in the Sacramento Area

By Linda J. Bottjer

According to Shakespeare, "all the world is a stage." That statement is so true in Sacramento and the surrounding region thanks to a number of amateur theatre groups performing here.

Enjoy the efforts of dedicated volunteers as a paying patron by watching everything from deep hysiological dramas and probing mysteries to lighthearted comical farces and romantic musicals. Many also offer special children's performances and programs.

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Photo Credit: Kris Hunt


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The magic continues now in Sacramento from the folks who once sprinkled enchantment at Roseville's Magic Circle Theatre. The 2012 season is a mix of crowd favorites. Among them are Agatha Christie's mystery "The Unexpected Guest," and "Camping with Henry and Tom," a dramatic and comedic accounting of an actual trip with Henry Ford, Thomas Edison and President Warren Harding. Acting workshops for children and youth, beginning at six years old, occur throughout the year.

12/26 - arts and culture - amateur theatre groups - Fool's Retreat Arden Playhouse
Photo Credit: Arden Playhouse


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First begun in 1998, the Arden Playhouse has experienced both the joy and tragedy of theatre life, by having to close down for a few seasons after their first theatre was sold. Now firmly established,the Playhouse's repertoire is full of variety for live theatre lovers. For 2012, local playwright Michael Messmer's work will be presented in "Soap Solution" along with "Oatmeal & Kisses" by Murray Schisgal
and "Legends" by the late Tony-award winner author James Kirkwood.

12/26 - arts and culture - amateur theatre groups - Forbidden Broadway - Sutter Street Theatre
Photo Credit: Allen Schmeltz


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Located in the midst of historic Folsom, the Sutter Street Theatre proudly proclaims it has something for everyone aged five to ninety-five. For children, their acclaimed "The Magic Toy Shop" will continue until December 30. Like their 2011 season, 2012 will feature Off Broadway and offerings as well as those first produced on the Great White Way. The Sutter Street Theatre's staff also offers classes on acting, singing and improvisation. If looking for a gift for the avid music, television or movie lover – stop by the Theatre's Pop Culture Shop. Autographed photos and action figures are among the goodies to be found
here.

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Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Winters Theatre Company


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In the little gem of Winters, the small town a few miles from both Davis and Vacaville, both residents
and visitors are enriched by the efforts of the WTC. As they have for over 30 years, their 2012 season is a potpourri of plays. "Leading Ladies" by Ken Ludwig will be offered in March and the melodrama "Green
Gold of the Valley" will be presented in May. Plays of the Bard, Shakespeare himself, will be presented
outdoors throughout August.

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Photo Credit: Kurt Anderson

Volcano Theatre Group


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Website

Gold is what first made Volcano a booming mine town and although the boom is long gone – the gold remains with the VCT. It is California's oldest community theatre group and 2012's season offers many riches. Among them are the thought-provoking "night, Mother," "A Philadelphia Story" and the door-slamming farce "Noises Off."

12/26 - arts and culture - amateur theatre - Imagination Theater
Photo Credit: The Imagination Theater


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For over a decade patrons, young and old, have laughed and cried over the productions performed by the multiple casts of the Imagination Theater. From the stage at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds the 2012 season features the perennial Lerner and Lowe musical "Camelot" and "The Little Princess." A children's soon-to-be classic that couples the stories and characters from "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" and "Little Red Riding Hood" will be performed in February. Summertime bring outdoor concerts in July. If interested in auditioning check the IT website for dates.

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Photo Credit: Tom Bramlett

Davis Musical Theatre

This is where devotees of musical theatre gather. Among the rhythmic 2012 shows are "Bye Bye
Birdie,""Titanic" and "Hairspray." "Willie Wonka" will be a highlight of the Young Performers' shows.

Linda J. Bottjer is a full-time writer who first sang on Broadway at age four. Granted, it was on the
corner of 42nd Street and Broadway, but it made her a life-long theatre lover. Follow her work at Words 4
Sail.

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