Conejo Players entertain audiences for 50 years

Over the past 50 years, volunteers have taged 368 productions at Conejo Players Theatre in Thousand Oaks. And they say they plan to continue producing shows for another 50 years to come.

The community theater is part of Conejo Valley history, and periodic economic storms won't stop the nonprofit group from providing entertainment for the community.

"Over the years, the Players have strived to keep up with the surrounding communities' changing tastes in entertainment," said Lucien Jervis, spokesperson for the theater, where mainstage productions, afternoon programs and children's shows cost between $8 and $20.

"Conejo Players is still one of the best deals in town for live theater," Jervis said.

About half the theater's patrons hold season tickets, which means they come often to see local performers in a variety of musicals and plays.

All of the theater's income, generated by ticket sales and donations, goes right back into operation and production costs because every participant is a volunteer, said Shawn Lanz, executive producer for Conejo Players.

"We did raise prices slightly in 2008 to help offset the expense of taking our box office electronic," he said.

Lanz graduated from a musical theater conservatory and was a professional actor for several years. He spends a lot of time at the little theater south of the 101 Freeway, relishing the opportunity to connect with fellow theater aficionados.

"Theater is a great way to give back to the community while fostering a supportive family environment for the participants," said Lanz.

Many who grew up taking part in theater activities at Conejo Players now bring their children to the theater to perform onstage and help behind the scenes.

"From humble beginnings, where theatrical productions were presented in a dairy barn, to the existing facility acquired in 1964, a lot of volunteer blood and sweat has gone into improving the theater facility over the years," said Jervis.

In 2009, the Conejo Players will take a more proactive approach to raising funds and pursuing grants.

Extra funds will allow the theater to launch new educational outreach programs, such as classes and training, as well as teen productions, which are free to participants. Capital improvements also need to be completed, Lanz said.

Performances of the current show, "Annie Get Your Gun," will continue Thursdays through Sundays until Sept. 20.

For more information about the theater, performances and auditions, visit the website www.conejoplayers.org.