25 Years Under the Redwoods: The Origins of the Curtain Theatre

In this very special 5th episode of Behind the Curtain, we sit down with three of the founding voices of Mill Valley’s Curtain Theatre—John, Michele, and Don—to revisit the seed of an idea that grew into 25 years of free Shakespeare performances under the redwoods. They share how an unused stage near the library, a city centennial, and a circle of passionate artists came together to spark the first production of As You Like It in 2001. From those dusty beginnings, the Curtain Theatre has blossomed into a beloved annual tradition—where music, community, and Shakespeare’s timeless stories fill our intimate amphitheater each summer. 🎭 In this episode, you’ll hear: The surprising origin story of Curtain Theatre’s very first production Why the Mill Valley amphitheater is such a magical space for live performance How music, sound, and setting have shaped 25 years of shows Why Shakespeare still resonates with kids, families, and longtime theatre lovers alike Hopes for the future and what the next 25 years might bring Pull up a chair, listen in, and celebrate a quarter-century of Shakespeare in Mill Valley. 👉 Listen now to Behind the Curtain: Episode 5 – 25 Years Under the Redwoods: The Origins of the Curtain Theatre. Read more about the Curtain Theatre’s productions