The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #64642   Message #3177864
Posted By: Desert Dancer
28-Jun-11 - 01:37 PM
Thread Name: Will Geer, old folkie (1902-1978)
Subject: RE: Will Geer, old folkie
The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum

From the History page at that web site:

"The beginnings of the Theatricum Botanicum stretch back to the early 1950s when Will Geer, one of the many actors victimized by the McCarthy Era Blacklisting, opened a theatre for Blacklisted actors and folk singers on his Topanga property. He also cultivated a large garden and, unable to find work in Hollywood, Will and his wife, actress Herta Ware, earned a living by selling vegetables, fruit, herbs, and theatre. With the advent of television's "The Waltons" and subsequent popularity of Will's portrayal of Grandpa, in 1973 Will Geer re-gathered his family (who were now working actors at theatres across the country) and together they formed a non-profit corporation, The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. Audiences flocked to free workshop performances of Shakespeare, folk plays, and concerts featuring such well-known artists as Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Della Reese & Burl Ives, among others.

"At the death of Mr. Geer in 1978, the family and a small band of players decided to work towards becoming a professional repertory theatre, incorporating educational programs and musical events. The local community and surrounding environs encouraged the theatre's artistic goals and proved their support by donating the labor and materials to begin a campaign which would expand and improve the theatre's facilities."

~ Becky in Long Beach
not been there yet, but it's on the list... have driven past the sign...