Nov 11, 1975
Pasadena Playhouse - National Register of Historic Places
Statement of Significance The "Pasadena Playhouse" with its adjacent "College of Theatre Arts" has brought international recognition to the City of Pasadena, has generated outstanding cultural attractions for Pasadena, and has produced a great segment of the trained acting professionals in cinema and television. An excellent example of the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in a public building, was probably the outstanding project of the architect, Elmer Grey. He also designed the Beverly Hills Hotel and, in conjunction with Myron Hunt, the Huntington Library and Gallery. At the time of its opening, the Playhouse was termed an "architect's masterpiece" which "radiates warmth" by the May 18, 1925 issue of the Pasadena Evening Post. The Christian Science Monitor (May 28, 1925) said "For beauty, completeness and technical equipment it sets a new standard of theatre building in America. In consideration of the Pasadena Playhouse as a landmark site there is validity in stating an historical and institutional preface to the present building. As a result of community interest and support the Community Players of Pasadena was formed in 1917 and on November 20, 1917, the first production was presented at the Pasadena Shakespeare Clubhouse. Later that year the Savoy Theatre in Pasadena became the official base for the group and the location became known as the Community Playhouse of Pasadena. In spite of limited facilities, the Playhouse gained community support, accented by theatrical values, artistic Integrity and participation at every level of operation by the community. It was this spirit and strength of community acceptance that prompted the campaign to create an adequate and attractive site for the Playhouse. The success of that campaign during 1923-4 was a tribute to the worthiness projected by the Playhouse. With the world premiere of Victor Mape's "The Amethyst", the present Pasadena Community Playhouse was officially opened in 1925. It was termed by one and all a success and during the years that followed compiled an incredible record.
Pasadena Playhouse - National Register of Historic Places
Statement of Significance The "Pasadena Playhouse" with its adjacent "College of Theatre Arts" has brought international recognition to the City of Pasadena, has generated outstanding cultural attractions for Pasadena, and has produced a great segment of the trained acting professionals in cinema and television. An excellent example of the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in a public building, was probably the outstanding project of the architect, Elmer Grey. He also designed the Beverly Hills Hotel and, in conjunction with Myron Hunt, the Huntington Library and Gallery. At the time of its opening, the Playhouse was termed an "architect's masterpiece" which "radiates warmth" by the May 18, 1925 issue of the Pasadena Evening Post. The Christian Science Monitor (May 28, 1925) said "For beauty, completeness and technical equipment it sets a new standard of theatre building in America. In consideration of the Pasadena Playhouse as a landmark site there is validity in stating an historical and institutional preface to the present building. As a result of community interest and support the Community Players of Pasadena was formed in 1917 and on November 20, 1917, the first production was presented at the Pasadena Shakespeare Clubhouse. Later that year the Savoy Theatre in Pasadena became the official base for the group and the location became known as the Community Playhouse of Pasadena. In spite of limited facilities, the Playhouse gained community support, accented by theatrical values, artistic Integrity and participation at every level of operation by the community. It was this spirit and strength of community acceptance that prompted the campaign to create an adequate and attractive site for the Playhouse. The success of that campaign during 1923-4 was a tribute to the worthiness projected by the Playhouse. With the world premiere of Victor Mape's "The Amethyst", the present Pasadena Community Playhouse was officially opened in 1925. It was termed by one and all a success and during the years that followed compiled an incredible record.
Nov 11, 1975
Posted Date
Mar 21, 2022
Historical Record Date
Nov 11, 1975
Source Name
United States Department of Interior - National Park Service
