Formed in 1953, the Rome Community Theater is the result of a merger between two distinct local performing groups:

• The Rome Theater Guild: Financially stable with a long history, but put on only 1 to 2 shows each winter due to a small volunteer base.

• The Rome Civic Theater: A newer group with a large, enthusiastic volunteer base, producing 6 winter shows and 10 summer shows, but struggling financially.

The Merger

In 1953, the two groups combined forces to create a balanced organization that survives to this day. This partnership successfully blended:

• The levelheadedness and financial stability of the Theater Guild.

• The exuberance and volunteer power of the Civic Theater.

Finding a Balance

One of the newly formed organization's first tasks was streamlining its schedule to avoid burnout while maintaining a steady output. They settled on:

• A regular season of 4 shows across the fall, winter, and spring.

• A select number of variable events during the summer.

The Debut Production

• Play: "Light up the Sky" by Moss Hart

• Presented by: The Kiwanis Club of Rome, NY

• Location: RFA Auditorium on Turin Road

• Dates: October 13, 14, and 15, 1953

• Director: Lt. Eric J. Kromphold

Opening Cast & Crew

• Cast: Emily Hayes, George T. Bolton, Ruth Fenster, and Dixie Bolton

• First President: Margaret Nero

• Makeup: Theresa Reed

• Stage Setting: Mr. & Mrs. Ted Scott

• Lights: Murray Warner

• Set Construction: Virginia Kirshner