Hunting for a dose of local culture while you’re in Marin County? You might want to check out the Ross Valley Players—a spot that blends small-town charm with surprisingly solid theater. Tucked away at 30 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard on the Marin Art and Garden Center grounds in Ross, this community theater group puts on live shows that are often way better than you’d expect from such a cozy venue.
The Barn Theater, where they perform, oozes rustic appeal and fits right into the Marin vibe. Walk in and you’ll feel the history—this is one of the area’s oldest cultural hangouts, entertaining folks for generations. It’s got that “local treasure” thing going on.
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If you’re thinking about going, it’s pretty straightforward. Head to their website for show schedules, tickets, and event details. Since Ross is close to so many other Marin highlights, you can easily squeeze in a performance between hikes, gallery visits, or whatever else you have planned.
About Ross Valley Players and Its Legacy
Ross Valley Players really stands out in Marin County’s arts scene. It’s one of the oldest continually running community theaters in the country. The group started back in the Great Depression and has grown into a real fixture for local theater lovers.
History of Ross Valley Players
Back in 1930, Beth Lloyd and a handful of women founded Ross Valley Players. They wanted a creative escape from tough times, and their little project eventually became a respected theater company with over 90 years under its belt.
You’ll find the company performing at the Barn Theater, nestled on the lovely Marin Art and Garden Center grounds at 30 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Over the decades, the place has become synonymous with quality community theater in Marin.
Despite ups and downs—cultural shifts, economic swings—you get the sense that Ross Valley Players just keeps moving forward, always staying true to its roots in community and creativity.
Mission and Artistic Vision
Ross Valley Players is all about putting on diverse, high-quality live theater that stirs something in people. Their mission shapes every show and outreach effort.
They tend to mix it up—classics, modern plays, sometimes a new or West Coast premiere. This keeps things interesting for audiences and gives performers a challenge, too.
Their artistic vision? It’s focused on:
- Professional quality performances by local actors
- Diverse programming for a wide range of tastes
- Accessible theater for everyone in Marin
- Creative growth for anyone who wants to get involved
Achievements and Notable Productions
Over the years, Ross Valley Players has tackled everything from Shakespeare to newer works. Their production of “Camelot” attracted fans from all over the Bay Area.
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They’ve even done a handful of West Coast premieres, including plays by Phillip Percy Williams. “Nunsense” was a huge hit—proof they can handle comedy as well as drama.
The group has picked up awards for technical stuff, too, like clever sound effects. Some of their actors and directors have gone on to bigger stages, which says a lot about the experience you’ll find here.
Planning Your Visit to Ross Valley Players
A little planning goes a long way to make your theater night smooth. The historic venue sits in a unique corner of Marin County, with lots to see nearby.
Location and How to Get There
Ross Valley Players is at 30 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Ross, CA, right inside the Marin Art and Garden Center. It’s about 20 miles north of San Francisco.
Driving from the city? Take Highway 101 North and exit at Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, then head west. Depending on traffic, it takes 30-40 minutes. Watch for Marin Art and Garden Center signs.
If you’re not driving, Golden Gate Transit buses run along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. The nearest stop is just a short walk away.
Parking’s available on site, but it fills up fast on show nights. Getting there at least 15 minutes early is a good idea—you’ll have time to park and settle in.
Navigating the Barn Theater and Marin Art and Garden Center
The Barn Theater, designed by Julia Morgan, feels intimate and welcoming. Most seats give you a decent view. Once you’re there, just follow the winding paths through the garden center—the signs point you right to the entrance. The box office opens half an hour before curtain.
They’ve got accessible seating for anyone with mobility needs. If you need specific arrangements, it’s smart to call ahead.
Restrooms are near the entrance, and there’s a small stand for snacks and drinks before the show or during intermission.
If you arrive early, wander the gardens a bit. There are sculptures, walking paths, and whatever’s in bloom that season—it’s worth a look.
Nearby Attractions and Day Trip Ideas
Why not make your visit part of a bigger Marin adventure? San Anselmo is close by and packed with great shops and restaurants—perfect for grabbing a bite before the show. Downtown Ross has a few cozy dining spots, too.
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Dominican University of California is just a few minutes away in San Rafael if you’re into campus strolls or checking out local art. The Marin County Civic Center (Frank Lloyd Wright designed it!) is another cool stop for architecture buffs.
If you’re itching for some nature, Phoenix Lake and Natalie Coffin Greene Park are nearby. Both have easy trails and lovely views.
Wine fans? Sonoma and Napa are just 30-45 minutes away, so you could squeeze in a tasting or two. And if you’re stretching your trip into a weekend, Point Reyes National Seashore is less than an hour west—think dramatic cliffs, ocean air, and maybe a few seals.
Experiencing the Theater: What to Expect
Ross Valley Players offers a different kind of theater night. The Barn Theater’s cozy space makes you feel like you’re part of the action, not just watching from a distance.
Choosing the Right Performance
They put on a pretty wide range of shows each season—everything from big-name classics like “Camelot” to comedies such as “Nunsense,” plus the occasional West Coast premiere. Check their website for the latest schedule and grab tickets early—popular shows can sell out.
Usually, they run 5-6 main productions a year, each lasting about a month. Tickets are in the $20-30 range, with discounts for students and seniors. If you’d rather avoid the crowds, Thursday nights tend to be quieter.
Pick a show that fits your mood. The season usually includes:
- Classic plays and comedies
- Modern works
- One or two musicals
- Special holiday events
Family-Friendly Entertainment Options
The Barn Theater welcomes all ages, but not every show is kid-friendly. Family-appropriate productions are marked both in their program and online. Around the holidays, you’ll usually find something the whole family can enjoy.
Bringing kids? Here are a few quick tips:
- Call ahead to check if a show’s right for their age
- Show up early to explore the gardens
- Bring a cushion for little ones who need a boost
- Matinees are often better for families
The theater’s fully accessible, so everyone can get comfortable. Staff are friendly and happy to help with seating or anything else families might need.
Community and Collaboration
Ross Valley Players really stands out in Marin County for its genuine community vibe. They often team up with other local arts groups, like Cinnabar Theater or Dominican University of California, which keeps things fresh and collaborative.
If you swing by, you’ll probably notice how close everyone seems. The lobby buzzes before shows and during intermission—actors, directors, regulars, and newcomers all hanging out, chatting, sometimes even debating last night’s performance. It’s more than just watching a play; it’s an experience that pulls you in.
Curious about getting involved? There are plenty of ways to pitch in:
- Ushering (honestly, not a bad way to catch shows for free)
- Helping build sets
- Pitching in with costumes
- Lending a hand up front
Jumping in gives you a real sense of belonging, plus you get a peek behind the curtain. It’s a different kind of connection—one you can’t really get just sitting in the audience.
Photo by Robin Jackson
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