Our Theater

History

Date unknown: The Adobe used to have a “bar” back in the day. Called “Adobe Spirits,” drinks were served out of a horse trailer. Pictured is Gary Kanin, who was the Mayor of Corrales and, along with his wife Dona, were both very active with the Adobe.

Date unknown: Adobe Theater stage set under construction in the apse of the Old San Ysidro Church (aka “The Old Church”). Play not identified.

1967: The Adobe Theater was housed at the Old San Ysidro Church, this is the front entrance.

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History of The Adobe Theater

In 1957, the people of Corrales, New Mexico, came together to create a community theater, naming it The Adobe Theater. They acted, directed, hammered and painted sets, sewed and fitted costumes, and handled the countless other tasks that bring a theater to life. Children were recruited to perform on stage, work backstage, and greet patrons with smiles and programs at the door. Best of all, they grew up developing a lifelong love of live theater—from both sides of the footlights.

Since opening its doors in the old Corrales Trading Post, The Adobe Theater has called many locations home. Productions have been staged in school auditoriums, an old coffin factory, and, from 1963 to 1987, the historic San Ysidro Church. In 1988, the theater moved to a storefront in the Las Tiendas de Corrales shopping center at the corner of Alameda Boulevard and Corrales Road.

Until that time, The Adobe had presented only a summer season. The move marked the beginning of year-round productions in a cozy, 50-seat venue. It was small and crowded, with a ceiling support beam running through the middle of the first row, but despite its limitations, the theater experienced steady growth and increasing popularity during its years at Las Tiendas.

In 1995, thanks to the tremendous support of its friends and patrons, The Adobe Theater established its current home at 9813 Fourth Street NW in Albuquerque’s North Valley. The 90-seat, intimate thrust-style performance space offers unobstructed views and ample room for both audiences and performers.

Over the years, The Adobe has presented traditional live theater, Zoom productions, live-streamed performances, and other innovative formats. It has also introduced unique programs such as AdobeFest, which showcases new playwrights and directors, and Native American Voices, featuring works written, directed, and performed by Native American artists.

Today, The Adobe Theater continues the mission that began nearly seven decades ago: “To present the finest, diverse plays and musicals to the greater Albuquerque and Rio Rancho metropolitan communities; to provide educational guidance; to encourage the development of new theatrical works; and to furnish theater enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels with opportunities to grow both on stage and behind the scenes.”

From the very beginning, The Adobe Theater has been an all-volunteer organization. Whether you enjoy performing on stage, working behind the scenes, or simply attending productions as an audience member, you’re invited to become part of its rich tradition and welcoming community.