Harwich Junior Theatre Inc

A Brief History

The origins of the Cape Cod Theatre Company/Harwich Junior Theatre are not unlike any well-loved fairy tale.

From its simple beginnings at the legendary Exchange Hall in Harwich Center to its current incarnation as a nationally recognized, year-round source of education and entertainment, our beloved theatre has always meant more than the sum of its productions. For thousands, it is “home,” brimming with creativity, collaboration, and a mutual love for live theatre.

Betty Bobp, our founder, was a respected drama teacher at Wheelock College in Boston. Her dream was to create a theatre that would provide opportunities for individuals of all ages to experience every aspect of the theatrical experience – from set and costume design, to playwriting, prop making, acting, and directing.

Betty set the cornerstone of her dream with the founding of the Harwich Junior Theatre organization in 1951 and secured space in Harwich Center’s historic four-story Exchange Hall – at the time, the tallest building on the Cape.

In the summer of 1952, along with a few volunteers, the new theatre mounted Cinderella, Tom Sawyer, and The Ghost of Mr. Penny at the Exchange Hall. Betty made the costumes, taught the students, built the sets, and directed the three shows on a budget of just $100. The organization’s following began to take hold, and a fourth summer production was added to the roster beginning in 1954.

In 1959, Harwich Junior Theatre was incorporated as a non-profit organization. During the 1960s, the theatre added an apprentice program and the Junior Players – a youth touring group. Both of these programs continue today.

Now generations into Betty’s wonderful dream, our theatre is more vital and vibrant than ever. It is alive with creators and creativity. Actors and audiences. Learning and mentoring. Camaraderie and friendships. It truly is a place for people of all ages to stage their dreams.