The Early Years (1926-1930s)

Back in 1926, a dedicated group of theatre enthusiasts ignited a cultural spark in Webster Groves. The Guild went from a conversation to an organization between 1926 and 1927, and began producing plays in churches and the Webster Groves High School auditorium. In the 1930s, most of our productions took place at The Monday Club of Webster Groves, which is still in operation today! 

Original One-Act Playwriting Contest (1931-1996)

In 1931, the Guild launched an innovative One-Act Playwriting Contest that captivated local playwrights and soon attracted submissions from all over the country. Renamed the Russell Sharp Drama Fair in honor of a foundational member, this contest elevated the Guild’s reputation and nurtured aspiring dramatists for decades.

Tennessee Williams at the Guild (1936)

The Guild’s story intersected with theatrical greatness in 1936 when a young playwright named Tom Williams, later famed as Tennessee Williams, entered the One-Act Playwriting Contest. His winning play, “The Magic Tower,” marked a pivotal moment for both the playwright and the Guild, adding a luminous chapter to its historical narrative. 

1940s – WWII Era and Beyond (1941-1951)

Amidst the backdrop of World War II, the Theatre Guild resiliently pressed forward, staging productions in homes, clubs, and schools throughout the community. The cost of membership and breadth of seasonal programming were both reduced to accommodate the shifting priorities of the time. This era of ingenuity and perseverance reinforced the Guild’s dream of owning a dedicated performance space.

Finding a Permanent Home (1951)

A major milestone was reached in 1951 when, after spirited negotiations, the Guild secured its permanent home at 517 Theatre Lane. This historic building, originally the 1909 Suburban School of Music, had already witnessed numerous transformations before becoming the cherished theatre we know today. After tireless renovation efforts, the Guild proudly opened its own theatre doors in January 1953. This achievement dramatically enhanced the community’s engagement with the arts, providing a vibrant space for creativity and celebration of local talent.

Hauntings and Paranormal Experiences

Beyond its artistic appeal, the Guild is also famously steeped in mystery, with numerous reports of ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena. These intriguing tales add another captivating dimension to the Guild’s storied past, delighting audiences and ghost hunters alike.

Recent History and Preservation Efforts

Recognized officially as a Webster Groves Historic Site in 2001, the Theatre Guild proudly preserves its storied past through ongoing renovation and community support. This commitment ensures that the Guild’s legacy endures for generations to enjoy.

Today, the Guild produces five shows a year from September to May—comedies, dramas and musicals.  Its governing body is the Board of Directors that oversees the administration of the Guild.  Volunteers do everything—select plays, act in and direct the shows, do the lighting and sound, build the sets, find the props, sew the costumes, clean the building and tend the garden.