- 1517 Lake Air Drive Waco, Texas 76710
We are providing the Heart of Texas community with quality live theatre...
The Mission of the Waco Civic Theatre, a non-profit organization, is to provide the Heart of Texas community with quality live theatre, to create an outlet for community education and participation in all aspects of productions, and to instill in the community a sense of pride and ownership in the theatre.
We are so happy you want to volunteer with us! Our 501c3 Non-Profit organization can only run with the valuable help of friends like you.
Waco, Texas. 1925. The country is dancing to jazz, reading Fitzgerald, and heading full-steam toward modernity. But in this Central Texas town, something else is quietly beginning—a cultural revolution led by a woman with guts and vision. Her name is Jean Fort, and she believes something radical: that theatre doesn’t belong to the coasts or the elite. It belongs to everyone. She gathers a group of teachers, business owners, and dreamers and founds the Waco Little Theatre. Rehearsals happen in living rooms and borrowed halls. The Fort House becomes a hub of creativity. Sets are built by hand. Costumes are stitched by neighbors. And still—audiences come. For over a decade, WLT brings plays, musicals, and meaning to the community. But eventually, as the Great Depression deepens and the country moves toward war, the lights dim and the curtain falls. Waco Little Theatre closes its doors in 1936. But not for long.
Fast-forward to 1945. The world is rebuilding. In Waco, Dr. Paul Baker, the dynamic chair of Baylor’s Drama Department, sees the embers of WLT and refuses to let them go cold. He gathers a group of alumni, artists, and new believers, and together, they relight the fire. Out of this effort comes the Waco Civic Theatre, formally established in 1948 and incorporated as a nonprofit in 1955—making it one of the earliest community theatres in Texas to take that step. But Baker doesn’t stop at forming a company. He dreams of a purpose-built theatre—a home. And in the 1950s, author and philanthropist Madison Cooper steps forward with the gift that makes that dream possible. With Baker’s vision and Cooper’s support, the plan moves forward. Then comes the partnership with architect James Hull Miller, who designs a facility that is elegant, modern, and community-focused. Built on Lake Air Drive, it becomes a beacon of local artistry. In 1963, the Journal of the Royal Institute of British Architects names it one of the three best-designed community theatres in the United States. That’s not just architecture. That’s legacy made visible.
The decades that follow are shaped by stewards of immense talent and care. In the 1960s, Frank Baird Jr. honors his mother, Mrs. Flora Cameron Baird, with a transformative endowment. That gift ensures continued growth, expanded programming, and sustainability for years to come. From the 1960s through the 1980s, Henry Snyder directs with precision and heart. He raises the artistic standard, mentors emerging talent, and leaves a mark on every production that bears his name. And in the modern era, Win Emmons steps forward—not on stage, but behind the scenes—as a strategic leader and advocate. His steady hand and clear vision help usher the theatre into the 21st century, ensuring that this cultural cornerstone not only survives, but thrives.
We’ve cast actors from 6 to 86. We’ve seen standing ovations, quiet triumphs, and opening-night jitters that turned into lifelong confidence. We’ve built a community—not just of performers, but of believers. This theatre isn’t just a building. It’s a living story, co-written by Waco itself.
It was sparked by Jean Fort.
Revived by Paul Baker.
Secured by Madison Cooper.
Expanded by Frank Baird Jr.
Shaped by Henry Snyder and Win Emmons.
And now—it’s written by you.
The curtain’s up. The lights are hot.
The next act is yours to write.
Welcome to Waco Civic Theatre.
Executive Director
Waco resident since 2007, and a former Professor of Voice in Baylor Theatre, Kelly MacGregor brings an expertise in directing and non-profit fundraising to Waco Civic Theatre.
Director of Education
A Baylor Graduate, with a BFA in Theatre Performance, Petra has worked professionally for over 20 years in NYC, Portland, and now Waco as an actor.
Director of Theatre Operations
Originally from Tennessee, Kelly brings new insight, ideas, and passion to Waco Civic Theatre. Having lived in the performance world for most of her life, from opera to theatre to chorus and beyond, she is very familiar with the stage and all the workings around it.
Director of Community Relations
Desiree Foley is a Texas native and lifelong musical theatre enthusiast. Her love for the stage began with dance and performance in youth productions and continued through college, eventually leading her to the Waco Civic Theatre stage in 2016.
Guest Relations Manager
Brandon Leal brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a passion for the arts to his role as Guest Relations Manager at Waco Civic Theatre. A proud Waco native, Brandon is deeply committed to creating a welcoming and memorable experience for every patron who walks through the doors.
Technical Director
From Cohoes, New York, Joey is delighted to serve as the Technical Director at Waco Civic Theatre. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from Baylor University, Joey leverages his comprehensive education to foster a love for the arts and all aspects of theatre.
Marketing & Development Coordinator
Born and raised in Central Texas, Ray is proud to serve as the Marketing & Development Coordinator for the Waco Civic Theatre. With a deep love for storytelling and community, she brings creativity and heart to every campaign.
We are providing the Heart of Texas community with quality live theatre, to create an outlet for community education and entertainment.
Step Into the Story
©2025, Waco Civic Theatre. All Rights Reserved.
