hen Shreveport Little Theatre (SLT) was founded in 1922, it’s hard to imagine that anyone could have predicted the longevity the theatre would have. SLT is in the midst of celebrating its 100th season. Think about that for a moment – a small community theatre that has put on productions continuously for a century. Maybe our shared collective experiences over the past two years give us a new appreciation for how resilient and exceptional a theatre must be to endure for 100 years.
What set SLT apart right from the start was its approach to storytelling. The theatre was the only one of its kind in Shreveport, an outgrowth of the Little Theatre Movement that had become popular in bigger cities. Traditional plays of the time were formulaic, sensationalized melodramas that were perfect for reproducing in big venues. But the highly commercialized productions also stifled creativity. SLT’s small company produced plays without such constraints, preferring to explore less conventional storytelling methods and subjects, a tradition that continues today, according to the company’s managing and artistic director Dr. Robert “Bobby” Darrow. “Throughout its history, SLT has been open to new ideas and subject matter, while respecting the audiences’ sensitivities,” Darrow said. “A diverse selection of plays and musicals offers something for everyone. And we try to reflect our community.”
Over the years, many legendary performers and performances have graced SLT’s stage. Celebrities have been made, as well. In 1938, David O’Selznick held auditions at the theatre during his search for an actress to play Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind. SLT actress Marcella Martin was considered for Scarlett but was cast as Cathleen Calvert, a supporting role. When George Carlin was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base in 1958, he appeared in two SLT productions. And several former students of SLT Academy have gone on to work in theatre professionally and on Broadway.
Like any other establishment that survives 100 years, SLT has faced its share of challenges: two World Wars, the Depression, two fires, and a global pandemic, just to hit the highlights. Undaunted, SLT has never missed a season. “The secret to Shreveport Little Theatre’s longevity is the support from the community, during good times and bad times,” said Darrow.
“That support for our volunteer-based nonprofit comes in the form of volunteer actors, ushers, board members, backstage volunteers, and our SLT Guild members–but most importantly, our audience members who purchase tickets and our patrons who donate to sustain our beloved theatre.”
SLT will continue to celebrate its centennial season with three more productions. The Main Stage production of Roger Bean’s musical The Marvelous Wonderettes: Dream On runs from April 21 – May 1; the Senior Academy production of Bring It On runs May 26-29; and the Junior Academy presents Charlotte’s Web on June 10-12.
SLT has made its mark in our community for the last 100 years, and there are no plans to slow down. “Because of Shreveport Little Theatre’s rich history, it is a gem among community theatres in the United States,” Darrow said. “Thousands of actors have performed on SLT’s stage, enriching the lives in our community…We are proud that SLT has improved the lives of individuals in our region for a century now.”