History

The Chester Theatre Company was founded as The Miniature Theatre of Chester in 1990 by Vincent Dowling. In its early years, CTC earned a reputation for language-rich, thought-provoking plays and for new works. This tradition has blossomed under the artistic direction of Byam Stevens, an accomplished actor, director, teacher, and dramaturg. Productions originating at CTC have played Off Broadway, and have toured regionally, nationally, and internationally.

CTC’s commitment to uncommon summer fare has attracted the talents of such established artists as: Michael Allinson, David Birney, Robert Elliott, Rita Gam, Polly Holliday, Kim Hunter, David Kelly, Dan O’Herlihy, Lois Nettleton, and Kenneth Tigar. Our commitment to the highest standard of acting has been in place since our founding — CTC has been an Actors’ Equity Association company since its inception.

In recent seasons, CTC has delivered a string of successes. Nixon’s Nixon took a Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival, prior to engagements in London, Dublin, and Boston. I am of Ireland played an engagement at Elms College in Chicopee, MA, as did The Double Bass prior to moving to an Off Broadway run at New York’s Mint Theatre. A Moon for the Misbegotten was in residence at Westfield State College following its CTC run. Valley Song was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant to underwrite its transfer to Springfield’s CityStage.

The 2004 Season proved to be CTC’s most successful yet, toppling box office records and earning the highest critical acclaim. Tea For Three, starring Elaine Bromka, was a sell out, and has played dates across the country prior to opening CityStage’s 2005 Season. Skylight was strongly represented in The Berkshire Eagle’s Ten Best of 2004 List taking the Best Actress award (Francesca Faridany) and a number of design awards, with Honorable Mentions in acting to Elaine Bromka and Bairbre Dowling.

In a region noted for its nationally acclaimed theater companies, CTC productions have won top honors among the very best of the Berkshires. The Boston Globe hailed this record of artistic achievement: “CTC has produced a record that can rival the best the area has to offer.”

CTC performs at the Chester Town Hall, located just east of Jacob’s Pillow in Chester, MA. For more information call 413.354.7770 or email [email protected].