the past, present and future
Who we are and how we got here
The Winnetka Drama Guild counted the young Charlton Heston among its casts in the 1940s. Winnetka Community Theatre, successor-in-spirit to the Drama Guild, mounted its first show in 1973. The rebirth of theatre in the village was due in large part to the efforts of one man, Rolf Blank. From producing and directing, to acting on the stage, Rolf provided the necessary spark, energy, and outstanding leadership. More recently, Doug Diggs has been the driving force behind the continued success and artistic growth of the company, which underwent a name change to Winnetka Theatre not too many years ago.
And we still have shows at the Community House! We produced our first "especially for children" show in 2005 and are already planning for our fourth show in 2008.
You'll see familiar faces regardless of the company name and we promise that our shows will never disappoint you.
Our decision to introduce Big Noise Theatre Company reflects the fact that the Winnetka Community House, the long-time home of the company, is not home to the majority of our productions. The recent extensive renovation of the Community House caused us to locate a new performance space.
2007-2008 is our 6th season at the Prairie Lakes Theatre in Des Plaines. It is a wonderful space - a large stage, great work room, raked seating, abundant parking, etc. - with wonderful people who have supported us beyond our wildest expectations. Thank you!
We think our new name, which comes from the big band song Big Noise from Winnetka is a great way to connect our past to our future. Hope to see you at one of our shows!
To produce high-quality shows that stretch the creative talents of our actors and staff and surpass the expectations of our audience.
BIG NOISE THEATRE COMPANY a division of Winnetka Theatre. Member of the League of Chicago Theatres.