Our History
From the early days of community theatre to the growth of AACT, our history is a testament to passion, creativity, and resilience. Explore the key moments that shaped our journey and continue to inspire current and future generations.
The Past Lives in the Present
The Story of AACT and Community Theatre in the U.S.
Henry Fonda began his acting journey at the Omaha Community Playhouse at the age of 20, encouraged by his mother's friend, Dodie Brando—mother of Marlon Brando. This pivotal moment would shape not only Fonda’s career but also reflect the power of community theatre in nurturing talent.
Founded in 1925, the Omaha Community Playhouse is a proud charter member of the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT). Today, with a membership in the thousands, AACT has grown from its roots in the rich history of community theatre, navigating its own path through periods of growth, challenge, and transformation.
The sections below document AACT’s evolution and the development of community theatre as a whole. Explore the milestones that have shaped our shared legacy.
All people and organizations are living histories, and knowing more about the past is essential for rooting people in time. That allows us to build, and, as may well be necessary, also to change, upon a secure foundation. Neither of these options can be undertaken well without understanding the context and starting points.