A longstanding and peculiar theatrical custom in the North Bay is at risk of being discontinued because of financial difficulties.
Similar to numerous performing arts organizations nationwide, leaders at
Mountain Play
are finding it difficult to boost attendance figures.
Every time Mountain Play Executive Director Eileen Grady steps into the Cushing Memorial Theatre on top of Mount Tamalpais, she experiences a journey through nostalgia. This theater has been a source of joy for many decades, presenting musicals and plays for more than 100 years.
“Ultimately, this ties back to our fundamental human experience of coming together in caves for the purpose of storytelling,” Grady stated.
Lines of rocks, capable of seating approximately 4,000 individuals, were set up during the 1930s. On days with good visibility, this open-air amphitheater offers breathtaking vistas of the San Francisco Bay.
As stated by Grady, ‘The architect behind this project was Emerson Knight, who designed the theater inspired by ancient Greek and Roman amphitheaters.’
Back in 1913, hikers and theater enthusiasts initially climbed the mountain to witness the premiere of “Abraham and Isaac.” This event has continued as an annual custom every year since then.
“This area has a strong sense of community. You often get the feeling that the mountain is communicating with you,” stated Grady.
However, Grady states that the disturbances caused by COVID-19, along with long-term shifts in how people enjoy entertainment—including the surge in popularity of streaming services—and increasing expenses required for complete productions, have led to Mountain Play taking a break.
“Each arts organization has worries. Could this be the end?” questioned Grady.
At stake is a legacy spanning over a hundred years of theater in a legendary open-air venue. Actress Susan Zelinsky has appeared in eleven editions of the Mountain Play.
“Imagine being on stage without a fourth wall. There’s no curtain, no camera; just an ocean of people you’re interacting with in real time,” explained Zelinsky.
However, it’s not only the springtime entertainment that the organizers are worried about losing; it’s also the sense of community and deep connections among Mountain Play supporters that they aim to preserve.
“I’ll often speak with individuals who mention, ‘My family would take me frequently when I was young.’ ‘Yes, I remember now—the Mountain Play. We ought to visit there again,’” he stated. “We simply have to reintroduce this idea to people’s thoughts so they can recapture that excitement from their childhood.” Said Zelinsky.
“I believe bringing the community together is more important now than ever before, and activities involving both art and nature are excellent methods for achieving this,” stated Grady.
Grady is uncertain about how to preserve 112 years of tradition. They’re
organizing to raise funds
hoping they won’t have to depart after establishing a strong base of heritage, traditions, and social bonds.
A dedicated patron has pledged to match all donations up to $100,000. Additionally, Mountain Play plans to hold a fund-raising event in June.
