Theatricum Botanicum

The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum is an open-air theater in Topanga Canyon near Santa Monica, set in a natural mountain amphitheater and long associated with Shakespeare, modern plays, and concerts. It emerged from Will Geer’s life in the canyon after he was blacklisted in the early 1950s, when he created a welcoming performance space for blacklisted actors and folk singers. In 1973 he established the present non-profit theater, shaping its grounds so that every plant mentioned in Shakespeare grew there. After his death in 1978, his family and fellow players expanded it into a professional repertory theater that continues to present Shakespeare, original works, children’s programs, and concerts.

Topanga, California · United States