NationalGeographicPersonalExplorer

The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum was founded by actor Will Geer, widely known for playing the grandfather on the popular TV show, The Waltons. Geer established this rustic creative refuge in the hills after he had been blacklisted from Hollywood in the 1950s, when “communist paranoia” was at a national high. The theatre focuses on classic theater, largely Shakespeare. Honoring both the space and the pieces performed within it, Geer planted herbs and plants mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays in the soil surrounding the stage. Geer passed away in late ‘70s, but his wife, Herta Ware, continued to perform in plays for many years after her husband’s death. In the early ‘80s, their daughter, Ellen Geer, took over as Artistic Director. Today the Theatricum Bontanicum is a professional summer repertory and theatrical landmark, with a 299-seat, outdoor performance space.