Ross Clark, archivist for the Pasadena Playhouse, will lead a historical exploration of the iconic theater at the Pasadena Senior Center on Tuesday, October 21, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event, “Pasadena Playhouse: A Dream on a Dime,” is part of the Fall Masters Series and is open to the public for a fee of $15 for members and $18 for nonmembers. Attendees may register online or by calling (626) 795-4331.
The program will trace the remarkable story of how Gilmore Brown’s vision took shape in 1925, resulting in a community theater that became known as the largest and most technically advanced venue on this side of the Mississippi and a renowned “star factory” training Hollywood actors, directors and choreographers. Clark will chronicle the Playhouse’s celebrated opening, its closure in 1969, and its rebirth when it reopened in 1986, leading to its recognition with the Regional Theatre Tony Award for excellence in 2023.
The presentation will cover significant milestones including the opening of the Carrie Hamilton Theatre, a 99-seat venue, in 2006, which expanded the Playhouse’s capacity to nurture new works and emerging talent.
The Pasadena Senior Center is sponsoring the event.
“Pasadena Playhouse: A Dream on a Dime” will run on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 2-4 p.m. Pasadena Senior Center, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 795-4331 or visit https://www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org/activities-events/special-events/2059-fall-2025-masters-series-in-person-pasadena-playhouse-a-dream-on-a-dime. Ticket prices: $15 for members, $18 for nonmembers.
