Our History

The Theatre Guild of Rockingham County, or TGRC as it’s fondly known, began in 1989 as an extension of the Rockingham County High School Drama program through the vision of founder Gene Saunders. With a goal to provide quality live theatre to our community, as well as an outlet for the local acting talent that he knew surrounded us, Gene gathered up some enthusiastic supporters and went to work, initiating the organization with its first production: Bye Bye Birdie. Over the next few years, the Guild expanded to two shows per year and then three. During the 2000-2001 season, Children’s Theatre was introduced, providing children ages 8 to 14 an opportunity to learn and develop a love for theatre. Soon to follow was Storybook Theater, offering short plays for young children. During the first 18 years, Gene cultivated TGRC into a superb organization, delivering 64 productions to our community.

From 2007 to 2014, under the guidance of Artistic Director Rose Cutuli Wray, TGRC reached new heights in production quality and community support, growing into the vibrant, regionally known organization it is today. Youth theatre was added during this period to provide opportunities for area youth ages 13-18 to perform in a community theatre setting. TGRC now produces four shows per year, typically including one children’s or youth theatre production, two mainstage plays, and one major musical production.