HOMEGROWN THEATRE
HOMEGROWN TALENT
Our Vision
- Showcase local talent​
- Introduce the community to the performing arts
- Introduce and expand the possibilities for theatrical experience in our hometown
- Develop artistic, civic and educational abilities and interests in our community through the performing arts
- Provide the community with an enjoyable theatrical experience utilizing local talent
- Expand the horizons of our local performers, both theatrically and personally
VIEW OUR ARCHIVES
Our Home
Today, hundreds of actors and actresses from Vidalia and the surrounding communities have participated in Franklinia productions. People from all walks of life and all age groups have come together, worked together, learned together, and experienced live theatre due to the existence of the Franklinia Playhouse.
VIEW OUR PAST SHOWS
(POST-2000)
Our Venue
Mrs. Brantley and Ms. Margaret Taylor, Franklinia's then-resident director, found the first location, a run-down meat processing plant and leased it from the City of Vidalia for one year at the grand price of one whole dollar!
Still, it was rough-going at the start. For many years, there was no running water and the restrooms were located next door at the Vidalia Police Department.
However, our Playhouse persevered, and now, through the generosity of Dr. Cathy Mitchell and the Board of Trustees of Southeastern Technical College, the Franklinia Playhouse has a permanent home at STC's Tattnall Auditorium.
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Our Name
After much discussion for a name that was unique to the area, Kitty Peterson submitted ”The Franklinia Playhouse.” Franklinia, a tree indigenous to the Altamaha area of Toombs County, was named by the well-known explorer and botanist, William Bartram.
Our Start
The Franklinia Playhouse was organized in 1976 by Dottie Brantley and a group of interested citizens for the purpose of promoting the cultural, educational, literary, and civic welfare of the community. At the time, we had no money and no venue, but that would soon change thanks to the efforts of our dedicated founders.
