Forty seasons of stories
told by Schuyler, for Schuyler.
Founded in 1985 by a handful of theatre-mad neighbours, the Schuyler Performing Arts Council has grown into the cultural heartbeat of the county — and we're still entirely volunteer-driven.
From a church basement to the Riverside Playhouse.
It started with eight folding chairs, a borrowed church basement, and a single performance of Our Town in the autumn of 1985. Forty seasons later, SCHUYPAC stages six productions a year across two venues, with more than 180 active volunteers and an audience that crosses three generations.
We're proudly community-led — no celebrity guest directors, no out-of-town casting. Every face on our stage is your neighbour, your child's teacher, the person who bagged your groceries last Tuesday. That's the whole point.
What hasn't changed since 1985: every dollar earned goes back into the work. Tickets fund the next show. Memberships fund the next season. Donations fund the building, the lights, the scholarships, the seats your grandchildren will fill.
Mission, vision, values
Mission
To enrich Schuyler County through exceptional theatrical experiences that inspire, educate, and entertain — while creating opportunities for artistic growth at every age and skill level.
Vision
To be the cultural front porch of Schuyler County — a place where stories from every corner of our community are told, and where everyone, regardless of means, can sit down and listen.
Values
- Excellence in craft
- Inclusivity and accessibility
- Community ownership
- Artistic risk-taking
- Pay-what-you-can seats at every show
Four decades on stage
Founded
Eight neighbours, one church basement, one folding-chair performance of Our Town.
First home
The old Bijou Cinema is bought at auction for $1 and reopens as the Riverside Playhouse.
Studio Theatre
A 90-seat black box opens, doubling our season and launching the New Playwright Festival.
Youth wing
The Carter Family Education Wing opens — 200+ students a year, scholarships for all.
Our venue
RIHS Auditorium
An intimate space for new work, devised pieces, and the annual New Playwright Festival every March.
Leadership
A small year-round staff supporting more than 180 active volunteers.
Chris Trone
Schuyler-born and raised. Directs two productions a year and curates the season.
Jody Worthington
Leads operations, fundraising, and the long-overdue lobby renovation.
Kathy Teel
Keeps six shows a year on schedule, on budget, and built to code.
John Doe
Runs after-school workshops, summer camps, and the new high-school apprentice program.
Come build the next decade with us.
Volunteer, subscribe, or donate — there's a part for everyone.