History of St. George Musical Theater
Looking back on SGMT’s history, it is impossible not to see an organization determined to overcome the incredible odds against it and rising to the challenges before it. The brainchild of playwright Mark Ogden who passed away in 1994, the reins were turned over to Don and Dawna Kenworthy who guided the small organization from a fledgling company of passionate followers to the most successful community theater in southern Utah. By 2007 SGMT was producing 8 shows annually with over 50,000 passing through its doors each year.
When SGMT lost its venue downtown and its ability to perform its signature in-the-round productions it was forced to close its operations. After 5 long years and a series of fits and starts and without any means to generate revenue, SGMT was given new life when former Mayor McArthur, newly elected Mayor Jon Pike, the St. George City Council and other supportive City officials allowed SGMT to produce its productions in the historic Opera House a venue that served as its home 15 years ago.
Our first season has been a huge success, and how wonderful and rewarding it has been to see friends, new and old, come through our doors to enjoy community theater as only St. George Musical Theater can provide it! Buoyed by community support and a greater appreciation for what was lost, SGMT now finds itself with a new leadership team and on the precipice of recapturing the magic and success of it former years, determined to learn from its past, be grateful for the present and look towards a bright future of producing incredible, memorable community theater that enriches those on the stage, off stage, and in the audience.
Thank you to all of you who make this beautiful dream a reality!
