about wrct
WRCT is a proud member of the
American Association of Community Theatre
WRCT's Mission
Encourage community collaboration and well-being through the Performing Arts
WRCT's Vision
Engage our community by providing sell-out quality productions
Originally named the Community Company of Players, WRCT was formed in 1975 by a dedicated group of volunteers in partnership with McMillan Memorial Library in Wisconsin Rapids. WRCT performed in the library’s theater for more than 30 years, dreaming of our own facility. In 2008, with the essential help of community members and businesses, we were able to make the dream a reality by renovating an old warehouse into a beautiful theatre in downtown Wisconsin Rapids.
WRCT is a non-professional community theatre, utilizing local talent throughout the entire production process. We value inclusiveness, learning, risk-taking, and respect for ALL involved. WRCT is run by one full-time staff member who reports to the board of directors. Read about how we do it.
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Our fiscal year runs from July 1–June 30. We are a year-round business with schedules that includes: four main stage productions, three youth productions, Silver Foxes senior theatre productions, fundraising events, and small productions in the Lois Cantin Studio Theatre.
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The WRCT space is leased from the City of Wisconsin Rapids. We partner with many other organizations within the community and are proud to be involved, responsible citizens. We owe our longevity and success to the commitment of patrons, business supporters, and volunteers who continue to believe in the benefits of community theatre.
An Actor Prepares
James Malouf readies to perform.
Scared yet?
Mark Vicker gets in the creepy mood for a Haunted House.
The Lois Cantin Studio Theatre
We use our intimate theatre setting for Silver Fox Productions, and other smaller shows.
Final Notes
Director Linda Garski provides notes during a final rehearsal.
Cast Fun
Deb Ciszewski and Jordan Haumschield chat before a show.
Our Theatre Angels
Gilbert and Jaylee Mead
The Wisconsin Rapids Community Theatre would not be a reality without Gilbert and Jaylee Mead, longstanding philanthropists in the Central Wisconsin region. The Meads donated $600,000 in matched funds. This was instrumental in securing the other half of the $1.2 million needed for the new venue.
Earl and Corinne Otto
The generosity of the Ottos changed the landscape of arts organizations in Wisconsin Rapids. Prior to her death in 2007, she established the Earl L. and Corrine A. Otto Community Theatre Endowment Trust, a trust that allows us to continue our productions and programming for which we are humbled and grateful.
Incourage Community Foundation
Incourage Community Foundation, formerly known as the Community Foundation of Greater South Wood County, facilitated Gilbert and Jaylee Mead’s matching donation, along with administering the more than $1.2 million Capital Campaign in-kind, ensuring that all the donations went towards our new home. Incourage was involved in making the 100-year lease for the main WRCT space from the City of Wisconsin Rapids, for $1 per year, happen.