Theatricum Botanicum

The Theatricum Botanicum originated in the early 1950s, when Will Geer was blacklisted for refusing to testify before the House Committee on Un-American Activities.

Unable to find work in Hollywood, he sold his house in Santa Monica and moved to Topanga Canyon, where he began selling produce and opened a theatre for blacklisted actors and folk singers.

When Geer returned to popularity in the 1970s from his role as Grandpa in The Waltons, in 1973 he re-gathered his family (who were now working actors at theatres across the country) and together they formed the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, a non-profit hosting free workshop performances of Shakespeare, folk plays, and concerts featuring artists as Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Della Reese, and Burl Ives.

After Geer's death 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.

Renovation of the Theatricum's scenic mainstage amphitheatre was completed in 1997, an architectural re-design and overhaul which maintains the natural aesthetics the theatre has become known for, while enhancing the venue's comfort and accessibility.