Bakersfield Music Theatre Celebrates 50th anniversary on the stage
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — For the past 50 years Bakersfield Music Theater and Stars Theatre Restaurant has been spreading the joy of musical theatre through hundreds of productions.
From classics such as Fiddler on the roof, The Sound of Music, and My Fair Lady, each performer has left their heart and passion for acting, dancing, and singing on the stage.
"The show has to have some kind of meaning, something that moves your heart, something that makes you think about your life,” Jim Fillbrandt, co-founder and executive producer, said.
Bob Anderson has performed at BMT for 33 years and says celebrating this milestone means the world to him.
"I just count it a privilege to be a part of this community of actors, and singers, and dancers because ever since STARS started there's always been this standard of excellence that they've achieved and over the years they've maintained that," Anderson said.
The theatre open in 1969 and became a non-profit in 1974.
Fillbrandt said when they first opened their goal was just to be involved.
"Our plan was to keep it open for one more day and that's how we've been going and here we are," he said.
Since they opened their doors, they have only been growing.
In 1989 the organization opened its "dinner theater' offering a meal at each performance.
They've also passed on their love for performing arts to younger generations.
In 1994, they established a performing arts school, where students learn from experts in the fields of drama, dance, and music.
" I think there will always be live theatre," Fillbrandt said.
The theatre will showcase the 50th Anniversary performance at the Stars Theatere Restaurant on 1931 Chester Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301 this weekend and next.
For find more information on the shows you can visit their website.
