Oakhurst, California
Community theatre in it's 51st season. 6 productions a years - Usually 3 musicals and 3 plays. Melodrama every summer.
In 1967 a group of community members decided that Oakhurst needed something to get the tourists driving through town on their way to Yosemite National Park a reason to stop (and spend money) in our Mountain Village.
With the help of the current Chamber of Commerce, the "Golden Chain Theatre" was born. Performances were held at the Oakhurst Community Center, and the theme was - 19th Century Historical theatre and Melodrama. The community took immediate pride in the newly- formed troupe, and soon, it was obvious the players were outgrowing their space, and were ready for the next step -- they needed their own building.
In 1972, the founding board members took a big chance each putting their own houses up as collateral to purchase the Snowline Bowling Alley, and convert it into a theatre. With unparalleled vision, this dedicated group re-vamped the old bowling alley, converted the lanes to an auditorium, "down dated" the Saloon, installed a few gift shops, and opened the doors.
In 1999, the Board of directors announced at the annual Awards Night Banquet that the final payment on the mortgage had been made -- the Golden Chain Theatre now owned its facility outright.
It is 2018 and we continue to grow, develop and improve. Golden Chain Theatre is dedicated to bringing its patrons the plays and musicals they want to see, along with keeping our tradition of Summer Melodrama and Traveling Shows part of who we are. In its 51st season, GCT is thrilled to present a wide variety of quality live entertainment, promote fine arts education and to make a vibrant contribution to our community's economy, culture and spirit.