Since being founded in 1994 by Lynn Pryer, the Gilbert Theater has provided quality contemporary and classical theatrical productions for our diverse community including: children, the elderly, minorities, and the economically disadvantaged while at the same time giving local artists another venue for displaying and producing their unique talents.

The theater was founded in the basement of Lynn Pryer's home in 1994.  The theater was also located above the Arts Council building on Hay Street in Downtown Fayetteville before settling into its' current home on the corner of Green and Bow Streets located near the Market House.  The Gilbert Theater is named in honor of the Marquis de Lafayette.

We have produced classics in theater, such as works by William Shakespeare, and also showcased outstanding contemporary works by noted playwrights such as: Donald Margulies, Eve Ensler, Suzan-Lori Parks, Leroi Jones, Paula Vogel, Christopher Durang, Edgar Lee Masters, Eve Merriam, Jane Martin, Athol Fugard, Moises Kaufman and Dylan Thomas to name a few. We have featured the work of many up and coming writers such as John Merritt, James Dean, Chris Canfield and Jim Geoghan. We have also produced benefit performances of Eve Ensler's, "The Vagina Monologues" to raise funds and awareness for the local Rape Crisis Center and C.A.R.E. Battered Women's Shelter. We have been a member in good standing of the American Association of Community Theater since 1999. The diversity of our community is served through our diverse projects and productions which have included, creation of a standing company of Commedia dell'Arte actors, a children's puppet show, a special performance for a blind/non-sighted audience, staged readings, workshops on the various aspects of theater production lead by experts in their fields, creation and implementation of a state-wide original playwriting competition and recognition of outstanding new writers and production of original local/regional plays. We have incorporated a student review night where we invite students from local high schools to meet with the director and cast. We involve students whenever possible both on stage and off. We give local actors, musicians and artists a place where they can practice their craft.

Meet the Friends of the Gilbert Theater.