Willow Glen Theatre began in 2012 when Nate Marble approached Zac Trotter about starting a new theatre in Southern Utah. Both attend Southern Utah University, will be graduating in 2013, and have plans to work in the theatrical field professionally. Nate and Zac want to create a theatre that the whole family can attend (and enjoy) together. With that in mind they started asking questions and meeting with people who had answers to help bring this dream to life. Peter Sham (SUU professor, mentor, and friend) was instrumental in Willow Glen Theatre’s development. Peter introduced them to John Carter and the Willow Glen family, ensured they had their feet on the ground, pointed them in the right direction, and then left them to learn by their own devices. Nate met TJ Davis (of Pickleville Playhouse) who had written “Who Shot Juanito Bandito,” the perfect show to open Willow Glen Theatre’s doors. A cast was assembled, rehearsals began, and the new theatre was underway.

Willow Glen Theatre and Juanito Bandito opened on July 16, 2012 to only ten people, but it continued forward and audiences grew. A special thanks to Sterling Young and all those who helped get Willow Glen Theatre started with their time, money, and patronage.

The future of theatre lies in the hands of those who attend its performances, and Nate, Zac, and Willow Glen Theatre would like to see it visited by people of all ages.