American Players Theatre celebrates its 45th anniversary with music and merriment

Sandy Tabachnick, Isthmus

As American Players Theatre prepares for its 45th anniversary celebration on July 21, artistic director Brenda DeVita reflects on the group's journey since co-founders Randall Duk Kim, Anne Occhiogrosso, and the late Charles J. Bright traveled to Spring Green, Wisconsin, in 1979, searching for the perfect spot to present live classical theater outdoors.

“The essence of Randall’s belief was that great stories done well and done while striving for excellence will speak to people,” says DeVita. “We’re serving people who enjoy listening to stories under the stars in the woods and try our best to do that with excellence.”

That’s been proven, with accolades like 1985’s nomination for a Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theater. In 2011, the late Wall Street Journal drama critic Terry Teachout named APT Theater Company of the Year. But maybe the most obvious tribute is how audiences keep coming.

Managing director Sara Young says that about 55% of the audience comes from Madison, while others come from Milwaukee and beyond.

DeVita says the APT audience members are very loyal and guest actors are amazed at how attentive they are. She says staff often ask themselves, “Who are these people who can remember in the third act a joke set up in the first?”

“We wouldn’t be here without our incredibly devoted audience members,” DeVita continues. “Our 45th anniversary event is also a celebration of them.”

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