The History of Actors Circle

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In 1982, a group of actors was sitting in a circle on the floor in the University of Scranton’s auditorium. Their first production was to be The Crucible. They were brainstorming a name for their new troupe. The first choice was “The Jefferson Hall Players.” Unfortunately, the university asked them to change it since there was already a small theatre group at the University with that name. So, Actors Circle was born.

For two years they performed at numerous venues throughout Scranton. Finally, in 1984, The Providence Playhouse became their home. Here they created a small intimate theatre that was dedicated to producing high quality theatre with and for the community. The founders' mission was to keep live theatre accessible to the general public, and to use their stage to give new actors, directors, playwrights and production artists a place to learn and grow. This continues to drive the work of Actors Circle as we joyfully share our work with the community.

 

The History of Providence Playhouse

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The building that houses Providence Playhouse was completed with much fanfare in 1931 for the San Mango d’Aquino Mutual Aid Society. A celebratory traditional Italian dinner was held in the downstairs meeting room for 300 attendees; many of those at the dinner were leaders in the Italian-American community of Scranton.  Architect Joe Bianchi’s beautiful upstairs hall was to be used as an event venue for parties, dances and wedding receptions for members of the Society and the Italian American community. The society stopped using the upstairs hall in the mid-1970s when it housed a garment works. From 1980-1984 it was home to a silk-screening company. Then Actors Circle moved in!