Ozark Actors Theatre is Ramping Up!

The Cedar Street Playhouse is getting a new accessibility ramp just in time for the summer theatre season.

“We’ve had this project in our sights for years, but didn’t have the money or the land.” says OAT Board Vice President, Dave Nuss. “Even though the old ramp was narrow and hugged the building, it actually ran right up to our property boundary.” A generous donation by the Gingerbread House funded the purchase of additional property to enable the new ramp construction.

The new ramp is wider, has two landings, and connects the building’s accessibility entrance to the main parking lot. The old ramp was a continuous slope, ending on a sidewalk on the far side of the building from the parking area, making it difficult to use.

The new ramp itself was fully funded through local, private donations. According to OAT Founder, Cindy Beger, “In recent years we’ve dedicated donations received in response to our annual ask letter toward projects that improve the Playhouse. We want to thank everyone who responded and gave. This is the first major improvement since the 2019 renovation and we are grateful for the generosity of our community.”

It was a priority of the OAT Board of directors to have the ramp in place in time for the summer season, beginning with Spamalot, opening June 19. Blane Pressler, OAT’s Producing Artistic Director, is excited for this season “This summer’s shows are big and splashy and EVERYONE should be able to enjoy them, so we are so pleased to have this project complete to make our art accessible to all. We have a great lineup of three very funny and nostalgic pieces. Heartwarming and hilarious! We are glad to have our doors open to all for this season!”

In addition to being the stage for OAT’s summer professional productions, the Cedar Street Playhouse has hosted community theatre, concerts, and other community events since 1988. The improved accessibility will help more people enjoy this community venue.
For more information about Ozark Actors Theatre, including tickets for the summer shows and registration for OAT’s Summer Theatre Academy for youth, visit ozarkactorstheatre.org.