Our Value

The Draper Historic Theatre (DHT) creates opportunities for community members to develop and share their theatrical talents with friends and family. Participants of all ages have the opportunity to act, sing, dance or learn the technical aspects of theatre including lighting, sound design, costuming, and set construction.

The value of DHT comes in its affordability and accessibility. DHT is strictly not for profit so none of the actors are paid. This creates the opportunity for aspiring actors to perform and gain experience. It also allows for cost effective ticket prices.

Our History

The Draper Historic Theatre has strong cultural and historical significances to the community. In 1938, Annie Pearl and John A. Howell family built a movie house named “The Pearl.” Vaudeville performances would start off the evening followed by a movie or two. Many locals felt fortunate to have a first run theatre right in their small town. For many generations this building, now on the Draper Historic Register, served as a gathering place for the south end of the valley. In 1988, the theater was purchased by Charles and Vanessa Nelson, who added theatrical lighting, sound and expanded the stage, enabling the presentation of live shows. With humble beginnings, DHT grew into what could be called “the best kept secret in the valley.” Ten years later, DHT became a non-profit organization and in 2004 the Board of Directors purchased the building from the Nelsons through a major fund raising effort. Having the organization purchase the building allows for the theater to truly belong to the Draper community.

Vision Statement

Draper Historic Theatre envisions itself as the premiere arts and cultural center of the south valley. It would be a place where artisans of all disciplines would perform, community members gather for social events, and youth would learn the tools of the theatre trade. Draper has experienced such rapid and continual growth in the recent years that there is a need for the community to have their own cultural events and not rely on other townships. DHT not only wants to provide cultural entertainment for the community but also be the physical location of numerous cultural events.