Theatre Americana, one of California’s oldest independent theater companies, will stage four benefit performances of “Jesus Christ Superstar” across Pasadena venues in April to support victims of the devastating Eaton fire.
The fire destroyed the company’s historic Davies Hall, which had hosted over 300 plays and the Theater Arts Ball since being specifically built for them in the 1930s, leaving only its rock facade inscription intact.
“There are three individuals that have been incredibly supportive and have performed with Theatre Americana that lost everything in the fire,” said Donna Scarantino, who serves as President and Artistic Director alongside Vice President Mary Ellen Gridley.
Among those affected was Sarah Azcarate, President of Altadena Music Theater.
“She not only lost her home, she also lost the amphitheater and Davies Hall as a venue, where for a little over three years, she was well on her way to establishing a professional theater company and children’s camp in Altadena,” Scarantino said.
The local arts community has mobilized significant support, with Lumina Dance Academy and Unity Church providing three months of rehearsal space for the upcoming April performances.
“Rev. Michael from the Ahiah Healing and Wellness Center welcomed Theatre Americana with open arms by providing the venue at a significant discount,” Scarantino said. “Dr. Tawansy, owner of The Raymond Theatre and The Raymond Renaissance Surgery Center donated the venue in support of the fire victims.”
Despite the setback, the organization remains resilient.
“Theatre Americana continues to thrive, bringing community theater to Pasadena and surrounding areas. We have established wonderful partnerships with other nonprofits and businesses within our community, and we have a robust performance schedule,” Scarantino said.
The company, founded in 1935 with a mission to champion American playwrights, operates under a hybrid volunteer-professional model, with full proceeds potential going to victims if sponsorships cover expenses.
Performances are scheduled for April 5 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., April 6 at 2 p.m., and April 12 at 3 p.m., with free parking available at the Ahiah Center location.
The benefit performances will take place at the Ahiah Center for Spiritual Healing at 150 N. El Molino Ave., and the Raymond Theater, at 108-142 N. Raymond Ave. in Pasadena, with $35 tickets available at tasuperstarsupportsfirevictims
Fifteen dollars from each ticket will be supporting fire victims.
