The Bonnie Kate Community Theater, a cherished cultural landmark in Elizabethton, is gearing up for its centennial celebration in 2027. Contrary to local belief, the theater will officially turn 100 on May 26, 2027, following its opening in 1927. Planning for the anniversary events is already well underway, with significant festivities set to begin on December 31, 2026.
Artistic Director Renee Christian clarified the timeline, noting, “There’s a common misconception in the community that she turns 100 in 2026; it’s even painted on the side of the building, but that just isn’t accurate.” The theater’s journey began with funding in 1926 and culminated in its grand opening on July 4, 1927.
Kickoff Celebrations and Monthly Events
The centennial celebrations will kick off with a themed New Year’s Eve party inspired by the roaring 1920s. Christian invites attendees to dress as their favorite gangster or flapper for an evening filled with entertainment. Following this celebration, organizers have scheduled monthly events leading up to the final gala on December 31, 2027. These events will encompass a diverse range of activities, including theatrical performances and a community scavenger hunt.
Starting next month, the planning committee will convene on the second Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Christian encourages community members to volunteer, stating, “This is a big thing to pull off. It’s going to require a tremendous amount of planning and effort, and we are always looking for more volunteers who love the Bonnie Kate and want to become a part of the next chapter of her life.”
Community engagement is a vital aspect of the planning process. Residents are encouraged to share their memories, photos, and nostalgic ideas related to the theater’s rich history.
Current Productions and Upcoming Auditions
While preparations for the centennial are ongoing, the Bonnie Kate continues to host various performances. Currently, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is in its second and final weekend, with evening shows at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. Tickets for these performances are highly recommended to be purchased online through the Bonnie Kate website.
Additionally, the theater is preparing for its upcoming production of “Once Upon a Mattress,” a comedic retelling of “The Princess and the Pea.” Auditions are scheduled for January 3 and January 4 at 2 p.m., with a later session on January 5 at 7:30 p.m. Callbacks, if necessary, will be held on January 6. The performances are slated for March 13-15 and March 19-22.
Christian expressed gratitude for the theater’s role in the community, stating, “The Bonnie Kate is a gem, a jewel in the crown of Elizabethton, and we’re so grateful to be part of her continuing story.” As the countdown to the centennial begins, the Bonnie Kate Community Theater remains a vibrant hub for cultural activities, uniting past and present in celebration of its storied legacy.
