Okay, real talk. When you hear "community theater," do you ever catch yourself thinking, 'Oh, that's just... amateur'? Like it's somehow "lesser," maybe just a hobby, not a profound artistic force? Yeah, I get it. It's a common misconception, but frankly, this perspective completely sells community theater – and our communities – profoundly short.

As a playwright who's seen magic unfold on these local stages more times than I can count, I'm here to tell you it's time to challenge those outdated ideas. It's time to really recognize the immense, vibrant value of grassroots theatre.

Here are seven ways that community theatre consistently gets sold short:

1. Underestimating its Passionate Craft & Quality

The biggest myth out there? That community theatre somehow lacks artistic standards. And let me tell you, that couldn't be further from the truth. Now, yes, like any live artistic endeavor, you might occasionally catch a moment that's still finding its feet, or a minor hiccup. That's part of the authentic, human, and often volunteer-led process. But that doesn't sell these incredible artists short! In fact, it’s a testament to the immense dedication to craft you see on those stages. Despite often having limited resources, these passionate individuals consistently achieve genuinely stunning, high-quality performances that will absolutely impress you. Their sheer effort and heart always shine through, proving that powerful theater doesn't need a Broadway budget to be absolutely brilliant.

2. Ignoring its Accessible Gateway to Live Performance

For tons of people out there, community theatre isn't just an option for seeing live performing arts – it's their only option. It’s like the front door to culture, making theatre available to everyone, no matter their bank balance or zip code. It's totally essential for cultivating future audiences and sparking that lifelong love for the arts, from our local stages all the way up to Broadway. Without it, where do new theatre lovers even start?

3. Overlooking its Powerful Community-Building Impact

This isn't just about putting on a show; community theatre is pure social glue. It actively brings diverse groups together, bridging generations and backgrounds, and fostering a profound sense of belonging. The shared experience of building a world, whether you're performing on stage or just cheering from the seats, sparks conversations, builds empathy, and strengthens local bonds like nothing else. It transforms individuals into a cohesive, vibrant community.

4. Discounting its Thematic Depth & Cultural Relevance

Think community theaters only produce "safe," light, or super familiar plays? Another one that sells them short! In reality, many boldly tackle complex, challenging, and deeply relevant works. Especially when they partner with local playwrights (ahem!), they can present original stories that truly reflect unique regional voices, local histories, or even current community issues. Take my upcoming play, There's Still Snow on Silver Star, premiering at Love Street Playhouse in Woodland, WA – it tells the hair-raising local story of the Yacolt Burn and the pioneers of our area. That kind of story just hits different and connects directly with its audience.

5. Disregarding its Economic & Educational Contributions

Community theatres aren't just cultural amenities you can take or leave; they’re actually economic drivers for our towns. They pump money into the local economy by buying supplies, supporting small businesses (think restaurants before the show!), and drawing audiences who spend money. And here's a big one: they’re accessible arts education hubs, offering affordable workshops and hands-on learning that nurtures creativity and crucial life skills in people of all ages. Often, they're filling a gap formal education just can't touch.