History
History of WRCT
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.
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, two Silver Foxes senior theatre productions, a haunted house, multiple fundraising events, and a Cabaret Series including after-hours cocktails and live music.
The WRCT facility is leased from the City of Wisconsin Rapids and Legacy Foundation and is available for rent to the general public for certain events. 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.
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 toward our new home and helped with the fundraising for 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. Corinne Otto was the first to donate $100,000 (anonymously) to the WRCT Capital Campaign. 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.
WRCT has a proud history of shows:
Wisconsin Rapids Community Theatre
220 3rd Avenue South, Suite #6
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
715-421-0435
Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday
10:00 am-2:00 pm
or by appointment