Mission
Spencer Community Theatre serves as an instrument for community enrichment and education by offering the public the most fulfilling live theatre experience possible.
Spencer Community Theatre's programs are made possible in part by grants from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Leadership Partners, the Iowa Economic Development Authority, the National Endowment for the Arts, Renaissance Initiative Grant, Clay County Community Foundation and the Dvergsten Family Foundation.
History:
The dream of a permanent home for Spencer Community Theatre became a reality in June, 1982 when the former Spencer Grocer Building was purchased to house the theatre's auditorium and support facilities.
The Spencer Grocer BUilding was built in 1921 and the warehouse addition was completed in 1928. In 1969, a new raised roof was added to the auditorium portion of the theatre. While looking for period signs to be used for props in SCT's production of "Damn Yankees", Tom Johnson came to the warehouse and discovered an empty eyesore of a building just waiting to be transformed.
During the summer of 1982, under the guidance of Stan Schoelerman, Jack Easter, Hank Toebes, Toby Shine and Gene Luken and with the help of the entire Spencer community, the "Best Little Grocer Warehouse in Spencer" became the "Bedst little Theatre Warehouse in Spencer." By November, 1982, major renovation had been finished and "My Fair Lady" opened the building. Over the years, SCT has continued to grow and expand its operation and its programming, and is able to house under one roof a whole host of facilities.
In 2010, the Spencer Community Theatre re-opened after a year of extensive renovation. The newly reconceived facility features a brand new state-of-the-art auditiorium, stage and cast facilities. A brand new scene shop nearly doubles the previous space. The facility now features a gorgeous new main lobby, featuring artwork by local artisans. Additionally, a generous donation by the Dvergsten family estate made possible the addition of a large multi-purpose conference, rental and performance room.
