ABOUT US

Rooted in community, inspired by story

For over a century, the Historic Bastrop Opera House has brought stories to life in the heart of downtown Bastrop. As a cornerstone of the community, we’re dedicated to creating meaningful, memorable theater that connects people of all ages and backgrounds — whether you’re in the audience, on stage, or behind the scenes.

A legacy on stage
since 1889

Built in 1889, the Bastrop Opera House has long served as a cultural beacon in Central Texas. Once a gathering place for vaudeville, music, and traveling productions, today it stands restored and reimagined — blending historical charm with a vibrant season of live theater.

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Group of nuns dressed in black and white habits, holding red hymn books titled 'Christian Worship A Hymnal', participating in a choir or prayer session with purple and blue stage lighting.
Young man dressed in black, smiling by a wooden table with a colorful set piece in the background, including three large yellow lights above.

Theater with purpose

At the Bastrop Opera House, we believe in the power of the arts to bring people together, spark conversation, and inspire change. Our mission is to create meaningful, high-quality theater while supporting education, accessibility, and community engagement.

Through our performances, youth programs, and partnerships, we strive to be a vibrant, welcoming space where creativity thrives and everyone feels at home.

A theatrical stage scene with actors performing in period costumes, some standing and singing with arms raised, others sitting on stage steps, with a blue lit backdrop and a violinist on an upper platform.

A stage for everyone

We believe live theater should reflect the richness and diversity of the world around us. At the Bastrop Opera House, we’re committed to creating a space where all people feel welcome — on stage, behind the scenes, and in the audience.

We strive to foster equity, representation, and belonging in everything we do, and we’re continually working to make our programs, performances, and partnerships more inclusive and accessible to all.

  • "This is a grand old building that is alive with a great variety of entertainment that will please everyone. It is a crown jewel of Bastrop."

    - Audience Member

  • "The most historical beautiful building. Great performances and performers. Hospitable and warm welcoming staff. It’s a walk back in time.

    - Audience Member

  • "We loved the vintage atmosphere of this historic building, and appreciate the quality shows they present there!"

    - Audience Member

  • "Great talent and creativity displayed in writing, producing, directing, and, of course, acting!"

    - Audience Member

Meet our board members

  • Lisa Holcomb

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

  • Michelle Gaertner

    PRESIDENT

  • Terry Beattie

    VICE PRESIDENT

  • Amy Schumacher

    SECRETARY

  • Tim Miller

    TREASURER

  • Dustin Bartee

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Joe Grady Tuck

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Cynthia Smith

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Jacob Layton

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Debby Denny

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Colin Guerra

    BOARD MEMBER