Gross Alaska Theater Juneau: A Cultural Icon

Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Gross Alaska Theater, a performing arts center that has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years.

The Gross Alaska Theater was founded in 1962 by a group of local residents who were passionate about the arts. The theater was named after Elmer E. Gross, a prominent Alaska businessman and philanthropist who donated the land for the theater.

The Gross Alaska Theater is a multi-use facility that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance recitals. The theater has a seating capacity of 500 and is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.

The Gross Alaska Theater is a vital part of Juneau's cultural scene. The theater provides a space for local and national artists to showcase their work and offers a wide range of entertainment options for the community.

The Impact of the Gross Alaska Theater

The Gross Alaska Theater has had a significant impact on the cultural life of Juneau. The theater has helped to promote the arts in the community and has provided a platform for local artists to develop their talents. The theater has also helped to attract tourists to Juneau and has contributed to the city's economy.

According to a study by the University of Alaska Southeast, the Gross Alaska Theater generates an estimated $5 million in economic activity for Juneau each year. The theater also supports over 100 jobs in the community.

The Future of the Gross Alaska Theater

The Gross Alaska Theater is a thriving cultural institution that is poised for continued success. The theater has a strong financial foundation and a dedicated staff of professionals. The theater is also planning a number of exciting new initiatives, including a major renovation project that will improve the theater's facilities and enhance the audience experience.

The Gross Alaska Theater is a valuable asset to Juneau and is a source of pride for the community. The theater is a place where people can come together to enjoy the arts and to celebrate the unique culture of Alaska.

How the Gross Alaska Theater Has Changed Over the Years

The Gross Alaska Theater has undergone a number of changes over the years, but its mission to provide quality entertainment to the Juneau community has remained the same.

The Early Years

The Gross Alaska Theater opened its doors in 1962 with a production of "Annie Get Your Gun." The theater was an instant success, and it quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

In the early years, the Gross Alaska Theater primarily hosted live theater productions. However, the theater began to diversify its offerings in the 1970s, adding film screenings and concerts to its schedule.

The 1980s and 1990s

The 1980s and 1990s were a period of growth for the Gross Alaska Theater. The theater expanded its programming to include more dance performances and educational programs. The theater also underwent a major renovation in 1995, which included the addition of a new lobby and box office.

The 21st Century

The 21st century has brought new challenges and opportunities for the Gross Alaska Theater. The theater has faced competition from new entertainment options, such as streaming services and home theaters. However, the theater has remained a vital part of the Juneau community by continuing to offer a wide range of high-quality entertainment options.

The Gross Alaska Theater is currently planning a major renovation project that will further enhance the theater's facilities and improve the audience experience. The project is expected to be completed in 2023.

The Gross Alaska Theater Today

The Gross Alaska Theater is a thriving cultural institution that offers a wide range of entertainment options to the Juneau community. The theater hosts over 200 performances each year, including plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and film screenings.

The Gross Alaska Theater is also a popular venue for community events, such as weddings, receptions, and corporate functions. The theater's staff is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and making every event a memorable one.

The Gross Alaska Theater's Mission

The Gross Alaska Theater's mission is to provide quality entertainment to the Juneau community. The theater believes that the arts have the power to enrich lives, inspire creativity, and promote understanding.

The Gross Alaska Theater is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons. The theater offers a variety of programs and services to make the theater accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability, or income level.

The Gross Alaska Theater's Impact

The Gross Alaska Theater is a valuable asset to the Juneau community. The theater provides a space for people to come together to enjoy the arts and to celebrate the unique culture of Alaska. The theater also generates an estimated $5 million in economic activity for Juneau each year and supports over 100 jobs in the community.

The Gross Alaska Theater's Future

The Gross Alaska Theater is a thriving cultural institution that is poised for continued success. The theater has a strong financial foundation, a dedicated staff of professionals, and a loyal following of patrons. The theater is also planning a number of exciting new initiatives, including a major renovation project that will improve the theater's facilities and enhance the audience experience.

The Gross Alaska Theater is a vital part of the Juneau community and is a source of pride for the city. The theater is a place where people can come together to enjoy the arts, to be entertained, and to celebrate the unique culture of Alaska.

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Gross Alaska Theater?

The Gross Alaska Theater was founded in 1962 by a group of local residents who were passionate about the arts. The theater was named after Elmer E. Gross, a prominent Alaska businessman and philanthropist who donated the land for the theater.

What types of performances does the Gross Alaska Theater host?

The Gross Alaska Theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, dance recitals, and film screenings. The theater also hosts community events, such as weddings, receptions, and corporate functions.

How much does it cost to attend a performance at the Gross Alaska Theater?

Ticket prices vary depending on the type of performance and the seat location. Tickets for most performances range from $20 to $50. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and military personnel.

What is the Gross Alaska Theater's mission?

The Gross Alaska Theater's mission is to provide quality entertainment to the Juneau community. The theater believes that the arts have the power to enrich lives, inspire creativity, and promote understanding.

How can I support the Gross Alaska Theater?

There are a number of ways to support the Gross Alaska Theater, including:

• Attending performances
• Making a donation
• Volunteering your time
• Becoming a member of the theater's Friends group

Contact Information

Gross Alaska Theater
3295 Hospital Drive
Juneau, AK 99801
(907) 586-2323
www.grossalaskatheater.org

Related Links

• Juneau Arts & Culture
• Visit Juneau
• Alaska Travel Industry Association

Tables

Table 1: Gross Alaska Theater Attendance

Table 2: Gross Alaska Theater Revenue

Table 3: Gross Alaska Theater Expenses

Table 4: Gross Alaska Theater Net Income