[Based on Altadena Music Theatre artwork]
The nonprofit musical theatre company will open Grease on August 6, launching its first fully staged productions since the January 2025 fire destroyed the Charles S. Farnsworth Park Amphitheatre, where the company had been based. Performances will take place in a newly constructed outdoor theater at Mountain View Mausoleum, built through the dedication of volunteers, artists, and community supporters.
The production of Grease runs August 6–16, followed by Little Shop of Horrors, September 3–13.
Rather than waiting for a permanent venue, Altadena Music Theatre chose to build one.
Over the past several weeks, board members, performers, designers, technicians, volunteers, and supporters have worked side by side to transform an open space into a fully functioning outdoor theater complete with a custom-built stage and audience seating.
“What has emerged is more than a performance venue,” said Sarah Azcarate, founder and artistic director of Altadena Music Theatre. “It is a testament to what a community can accomplish when people refuse to let tragedy have the final word.”
Founded in 2020 by Sarah Azcarate, Altadena Music Theatre quickly earned a reputation for ambitious productions including Hair, Cabaret, and Guys and Dolls, while remaining deeply rooted in the Altadena community through youth theater, arts education, and opportunities for emerging performers.
This season continues that tradition with a cast that reflects the company’s unique character—a dynamic blend of Broadway veterans, professional performers, longtime Altadena Music Theatre favorites, and talented local actors, musicians, and artists.
In addition to producing professional-quality musical theater, the nonprofit remains committed to inspiring the next generation through youth productions and arts education programs, ensuring that children and teenagers continue to have opportunities to discover the joy and confidence that performing can bring.
The choice of Grease to reopen the season reflects the company’s optimism and determination. Filled with unforgettable songs, humor, and heart, the beloved musical celebrates friendship, hope, and the belief that anything is possible. Little Shop of Horrors follows in September, showcasing the company’s artistic range with one of musical theater’s most entertaining cult classics.
For founders Sarah and Oliver Azcarate, rebuilding the theater has become part of helping rebuild the community they love. Although the Eaton Fire claimed their home and the company’s longtime performance space, it did not diminish their vision of creating accessible, community-centered musical theater in Altadena.
Tickets are available for each production individually, or audiences can save by purchasing a season package that includes both Grease and Little Shop of Horrors. Every ticket purchased not only promises an evening of exceptional live entertainment but also helps sustain a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to enriching the cultural life of Altadena.
At a time when the community continues to recover from devastating loss, supporting Altadena Music Theatre is an investment in resilience, creativity, and the belief that the arts help communities heal.
Performance Information
Grease
August 6–16, 2026
Thursdays through Sundays at 8:00 p.m.
Little Shop of Horrors
September 3–13, 2026
Venue:
Mountain View Mausoleum Outdoor Theatre, 2300 Marengo Avenue, in Altadena.
For tickets, season packages, donations, and additional information about Altadena Music Theatre’s performances and educational programs, visit www.altadenamusictheatre.com.
