The Rich History of Windham Theatre Guild

In May of 1985, over twenty people gathered in the Willimantic Public Library and the Windham Theatre Guild was born. Led by Victor Funderburk, WTG’s first show was The Frog’s Alive in ‘85, a collection of skits and songs at Windham High School. Inspired by the show’s success, members of the new organization went into the community to look for a venue to try dinner theatre in Windham and an alliance with the Pulaski American Citizens Club began.

Suddenly WTG was producing three or four shows a year, drawing hundreds of people to performances. As the Guild grew larger and performance space became difficult to find, WTG began the search for a home. After years of searching, planning, and fundraising, that became a reality on September 6, 2003 when the Burton Leavitt Theatre opened. 

Since then the Burton Leavitt Theatre has truly become the home of the Windham Theatre Guild. The Tricia Hul Stage has held hundreds of shows from Main Stage productions to concerts by our Broadway Chorus and brilliant youth productions. WTG has produced original works from local playwrights, staged readings for script development, and performed plays written overnight in a 24-hour theatrical sprint. Windham Theatre Guild has had the pleasure of telling stories you know and love and stories you’ve never heard before. Every show we do is a testament to the love and spirit of our community. 

Our Journey Through the Years

Windham Theatre Guild has been a cornerstone of the local arts community since its inception. Since its founding, it has provided a platform for aspiring actors, directors, and playwrights to showcase their talents. The guild’s commitment to community engagement and artistic excellence has made it a beloved institution in Eastern Connecticut theater. Over the years, we have produced memorable performances that have captivated audiences and fostered a love for the performing arts.

From humble beginnings, the Windham Theatre Guild has grown into a vibrant community of artists and supporters. Each production reflects our dedication to quality theatre and our passion for storytelling. Our history is rich with stories of creativity, collaboration, and community spirit.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Windham Theatre Guild

As we reflect on our past, we are excited about the future of the Windham Theatre Guild. Our vision is to continue fostering a love for the arts and providing a platform for diverse voices in theatre. We aim to expand our programming, engage more community members, and explore innovative ways to present our productions. With the support of our patrons and volunteers, we believe the best is yet to come.

Join us on this journey as we celebrate our history and look forward to new adventures in the world of theatre. Your support is vital in helping us achieve our goals and continue our mission of enriching the community through the performing arts. Together, we can create unforgettable experiences and lasting memories for all.