Geva Theatre Center

Geva Theatre Center is a not-for-profit theatre company dedicated to creating and producing professional theatre productions, programs, and services of a national standard. As Rochester’s flagship professional theatre, Geva Theatre Center is the most attended regional theatre in New York State, and one of the 25 most attended in the country, serving up to 160,000 patrons annually, including more than 16,000 students. Founded in 1972 by William Selden and Cynthia Mason Selden, Geva Theatre was originally housed in the Rochester Business Institute building on South Clinton Avenue. In 1982, Geva purchased and converted its current space – formerly the Naval Armory built in 1868 – and opened its new home at the Richard Pine Theatre in March 1985. As one of the country’s leading theatre companies and a member of the national League of Resident Theatres, Geva produces an eclectic repertoire from musicals to American and world classics, drawing upon the talents of the country’s top actors, directors, designers and writers who are shaping the American Theatre scene. Geva Theatre Center operates two venues – the 552-seat Elaine P. Wilson Mainstage and the 180-seat Ron & Donna Fielding Nextstage, home to Geva Comedy Improv and Geva’s New Play Development Programs. In addition, the Nextstage hosts visiting companies of both local and international renown. Geva also offers a wide variety of educational, outreach and literary programs throughout the building and in the community.