Kenai Performers grew out of a need for cultural activities on the central Kenai Peninsula in the years following the homestead movement, and the development of oil and gas resources in the area. For those fast arriving in the area, it became clear that theater is a great way to pass the winter months.

In 1969, the Kenai Performers began producing community musicals in the only available venue —Kenai schools. For several years, school gymnasiums provided space for productions built from the ground up. Those interested in being involved came from Kenai, Soldotna, Homer and surrounding areas to participate. In later years, the Kenai Performers moved onto the stages of local high school auditoriums, and developed productions touring across the Kenai Peninsula. In 1981, “The Ballad of Kenai,” written by Lance Petersen, toured to the Alaska Community Theater Festival in Haines, Alaska and went on to perform at the National AACT Fest in Kalamazoo, MI.

In the 1990s the Kenai Performers began to look for a more permanent home, and began its residence at the Old Town Playhouse in Old Town Kenai. While still producing large performances in the Kenai Central High School Auditorium, Kenai Performers developed a year-round season, which might include drama, comedy, dinner theater and theater for youth. The 75-seat house provided opportunities for performers of all ages, backgrounds and interests to become involved in the process of creating community theater.

In 2010, with the development of Curtain Call Consignment Boutique (an ongoing fundraising arm of the Kenai Performers), consistent revenue building through admissions and education fees, and with the commitment of a $400,000 loan from the USDA, the Kenai Performers purchased a building with a three-phase renovation plan for a 140-seat theatre.

The Kenai Performers are years old and counting. Get involved to help us shape the next 30 years!

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