Theatre on the Ridge
Together, we can create a theatre that not only entertains but also enlightens, challenges, and inspires. We invite you to join us in our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable artistic community.
History
We are the longest running California non-profit community theatre north of Sacramento.
Theatre on the Ridge (TOTR) has been the Ridge’s premier theatre, captivating thousands of patrons with exceptional performances for nearly five decades. Founded in 1975 as an extension of a children’s program run by the Paradise Recreation and Parks District, TOTR began by producing one or two shows a year in a local gymnasium. In September 1979, the theatre expanded to its own location, transforming an old commercial building through the hard work of volunteers and generous donations of materials and services from local businesses.
TOTR’s first full season of regularly scheduled performances launched in 1980, featuring four productions and the introduction of season tickets. Today, TOTR has grown to over 750 season ticket subscribers, a number that continues to increase each year. Despite the challenges posed by the Camp Fire in November 2018, which devastated much of the area, TOTR has remained resilient, continuing to bring the joy of live theatre to our community.
As the oldest California non-profit community theatre north of Sacramento, TOTR operates as a 501(c)(3) organization, dedicated to enriching the cultural life of our community.
Where We Are:
How to get to us from...
Take CA 99 to Skyway Exit
Take Skyway East
Turn right on Neal Rd.
Chico
Take Clark Road / CA 191 to Pearson Road
Turn left on Pearson Road
Turn left on Skyway
Turn left on Neal Road
Oroville
3735 Neal Rd, Paradise, CA 95969
Currently, TOTR presents seven main stage productions each year in our intimate 101-seat theatre. Beyond our regular season, we are proud to offer youth performance and education programs through StageCoach Youth Theatre, with three sessions annually. These classes and camps are designed to inspire and nurture the talents of local youth, helping to cultivate the next generation of artists. The StageCoach productions are always a big draw for audiences.
In addition to our own productions, TOTR serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting music and theatre events for local musicians, performers, and academic institutions. If you’re interested in using our space for your event, please reach out to our Executive Director to explore how we can collaborate.
At Theatre on the Ridge, we believe that the magic of theatre lies in its ability to bring people together, reflect diverse experiences, and celebrate the rich variety of human experiences.
Our aim is to create an inclusive, welcoming, and safe environment where everyone—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, socioeconomic status, or background—feels valued and respected:
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We ensure our productions, staff, and leadership reflect the diversity of our community.
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We actively seek out stories and voices from all walks of life to create opportunities for underrepresented groups in all aspects of theatre-making.
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We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, and any form of harmful behavior.
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We encourage open dialogue and feedback, fostering a community where everyone feels empowered to share their thoughts and experiences.
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We are committed to ongoing education and self-improvement in matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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We regularly evaluate our policies and practices to ensure they align with our values and the needs of our community.
To summarize, the purpose of Theatre on the Ridge is to engage, educate and entertain our community with consistently creative theatre experiences. Our mission includes, but is not limited to:
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Promoting education and involvement in the performing arts.
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Providing area residents with opportunities for participation in, and appreciation for, theater arts.
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Encouraging training and education for both young people and adults in the performing arts.
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And, when possible, to foster appreciation for serious drama as well as new, original works by local and other writers.
We acknowledge that we gather on the unceded ancestral lands of the Maidu and Konkow people, who have stewarded this land for countless generations. We honor their ongoing connection to these lands and waters, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and future. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted history of the land, the resilience of Indigenous peoples, and our shared responsibility to honor and protect these lands respectfully.
Our Directors and Board Members
Judy Clemens
Executive Director
Jerry Miller
Artistic Director
Erika Soerensen
StageCoach Youth Theatre Director
Joni Dunlap
President
Mark Thorp
Vice President
Margaret VanLaanMartin
Secretary
Andy Hafer
Treasurer